The free tax preparation services are being offered to people in the greater Newark area that earn less than $56,000 a year. The program found roughly $13 million in total refunds for residents in 2018, says Catherine Wilson with United Way of Essex and West Hudson
“Newark residents also claimed close to $6 million in earned income tax credits. Consumers that used our free tax program also saved $1.7 million in tax filing fees,” Wilson said. “Anybody in the greater Newark region can come to a free tax site. So, if you live in Irvington or one of the Oranges, you can also come down to Newark.”
A coalition of Newark businesses affiliated with the free tax prep services are launching an initiative that helps residents gain access to banking services.
In addition to the tax prep services, the program is offering city students help with filling out Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms for college.