WEST MICHIGAN - It’s almost time to file taxes. And West Michiganders that need guidance to file tax documents correctly can find free tax services through Heart of West Michigan United Way.
Brenda Brame is the program manager for the Kent County Tax Credit Coalition through Heart of West Michigan United Way. She says this year there are different options for contactless help including a drop-off service and virtual remote interaction.
“This year is going to be quite different," says Brame. "In the past everyone has called 2-1-1, made and appointment, came in to sit down face-to-face and we prepared your return and e-file it for free. Now people are able to call 2-1-1 and we offer a drop-off service or a virtual service. Drop-off service is just what it says: you go to the site, you fill out your intake, have all your documents, then leave. If we they have questions we will call you to ask questions. The following week, sign the paperwork and take your copy with you. The virtual remote, you're going to call 2-1-1, they give you a slotted time to fill out your form online, and they will tell you all of the documents you need to upload.”
Experts agree that taxes should be filed this year between Feb. 12, and the tax deadline of April 15. And due to the current work from home environment all across the country, you should expect the entire process to take a little longer than usual.
Heart of West Michigan United Ways reminds everyone to be patient this season.
“Please be patient, be kind and be gracious," says Brenda Brame. "We are going to serve you, remember, they’re volunteers. Everyone is volunteer who has taken time to do the IRS certification so they can service you with excellence. Be patient with 2-1-1when you call them to get a tax appointment. They want to serve you, just give them time to do it and they will.”
Join 13 ON YOUR SIDE for a Facebook LIVE Q&A with a local tax expert at 6:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 4, 2021. Submit tax questions by texting them to 616-559-1310.
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