Thursday, August 1, 2013

Taxpayer assistance grant to help growing needs of Minnesotans

ST. PAUL, Minn. – In an effort to increase volunteer tax preparation assistance, the Minnesota Department of Revenue is pleased to announce $400,000 is available in grant money for non-profits. Thanks to efforts by the 2013 legislature and Governor Dayton, the amount has doubled from $200,000 in previous years and will help thousands of low-income people file their taxes for free.

The grant is available to non-profit, 501(c)(3) organizations that help low-income, elderly, disabled, and limited-English speaking taxpayers file their returns.

“The demand for free tax assistance across the state continues to grow,” said Tracy Fischman, executive director of AccountAbility Minnesota. “Free tax programs provide essential, high quality services that help low-income households maximize their refunds, meet tax obligations, and avoid high-cost fees charged by some paid preparers. This funding ensures that we and our partners can continue to meet the growing need, and we are grateful for the support we receive through this program.”

Last year, 36 organizations helped 186,000 taxpayers receive assistance as a result of the grant. Now, even more Minnesotans will get help filing their tax returns. The grant money provides taxpayers with the information, education and service they need to file accurate and timely tax returns. Proactively providing this support makes government more efficient and saves taxpayer money.

“Each year, the dollar amount requested by organizations is more than double the money available,” said Terri Steenblock, Assistant Commissioner for Individual Taxes. “Governor Dayton recognizes that Minnesotans want to comply with tax laws; this grant will increase the number of Minnesotans who receive tax filing help for free.”
Organizations can apply for grant funds beginning today. Applications must be received by Thursday, September 12, 2013 at 2 p.m. The money has to be used for volunteer tax assistance services.