from staff
It’s widely known now that citizens can’t get their $300 or $600 government reimbursements through the federal Economic Stimulus Package unless they file a tax return.
But for many Jacksonville veterans, seniors and others who don’t normally file a return and haven’t for some time, the RealSense Prosperity Campaign and the City of Jacksonville are offering some help in the form of an “Economic Stimulus Package Tax Blitz Day” on April 24.
Taxes are due for most citizens by April 15, however the deadline is extended for persons who don’t normally file taxes but have to file a return to receive the economic stimulus rebate, according to City spokesperson Kristin Beach.
The RealSense Prosperity Campaign is a locally based coalition of agencies, nonprofits and businesses working in partnership to improve the financial outlook for Northeast Florida citizens. During the Tax Blitz Day, RealSense volunteer tax teams will help prepare free tax returns for eligible citizens at four City senior centers
“RealSense wants to get the word out to all corners of our community regarding the Economic Stimulus Package,” said Kaye Schmitz, RealSense executive director. “This one-time, non-taxable payment promises to have a significant impact on those who qualify, as well as our community at large. In order for individuals or families to receive this payment they must file a 2007 income tax return. We want to be certain that individuals who don’t normally file a tax return are aware of this rebate and the fact that we will help them file for free.”
More than 50 organizations form the RealSense volunteer tax team, which provides information about the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), free income tax preparation for those who qualify, money management and credit restoration education and information about matched savings accounts that encourage setting and attaining long-term goals.
Mayor John Peyton said he was pleased a group like RealSense is available to help residents with their taxes, especially this year with the Economic Stimulus Package being offered.
“The Economic Stimulus Package will be truly beneficial to many of our senior citizens and in turn, will positively benefit the prosperity of our entire community,” said Peyton.
Tax teams will be available at the following locations on April 24 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m:
• Arlington — Arlington Senior Center, 1078 Rogero Rd.
• Westside — Lane Wiley Senior Center, 6710 Wiley Rd.
• Northside — Lincoln Villa Senior Center, 7866 New Kings Rd.
• Downtown — Mary Singleton Senior Center, 150 E. First St.
For more information about free tax preparation or other RealSense Prosperity Campaign programs and services, call United Way at 2-1-1 or 632-0600.