By Assemblyman Al Stirpe
(Syracuse, NY – Jan. 2016) Navigating the complex tax system can be overwhelming and stressful, making it easy to overlook hundreds or even thousands of dollars in potential credits and deductions. But right now, free assistance is available throughout Central New York to help guide hardworking families through tax season and ensure they get every penny they deserve.
Tax breaks like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can provide financial relief to working families and help cover the rising cost of living here. But unfortunately, 1 of every 5 taxpayers eligible for the EITC fails to apply, mainly because they aren’t aware the credit exists or how beneficial it can be. This year, eligible families could receive up to $6,242 from the EITC – enough to help pay the bills or start a savings fund for the future.
Other tax credits you may qualify for include:
- the Empire State Child Credit, worth up to $330 per child aged 4-16;
- the federal Child Tax Credit, worth up to $1,000 per child under the age of 17;
- the Child and Dependent Care Credit, an income-based credit for working parents who pay for child care or the care of a dependent;
- the College Tuition Credit or College Tuition Itemized Deduction; or
- the Real Property Tax Credit, a refundable credit worth up to $375 for eligible homeowners and renters.
Learning which credits you and your family qualify for can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance has volunteers on hand to help you avoid scams and get your full refund this year. Free help is available between 1 and 5 p.m. at the following locations:
Northern Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) at Brewerton
5440 Bennett St.
Wednesdays through April 13
NOPL at Cicero
8686 Knowledge Lane
Fridays through April 8
In addition, the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide will be offering free tax preparation assistance by appointment through the end of tax season at the following locations:
NOPL at North Syracuse
100 N. Trolley Barn Lane
315-458-6184
Minoa Free Library
242 N. Main St.
315-656-7401
Fayetteville Free Library
300 Orchard St.
315-637-6374
Manlius Library
1 Arkie Albanese Ave.
315-682-6400
If you made less than $62,000 last year, you can also e-file your federal and state taxes for free. For more information or to e-file your taxes, visit www.tax.ny.gov.
I hope you find this information useful as you prepare your taxes this year, and I encourage you to take advantage of the many resources available to help ensure you can keep more of your hard-earned money. As always, my door is open. If you have any questions about this or any other community issue, please don’t hesitate to contact me at StirpeA@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 452-1115.