Tax season is officially upon us! While it isn’t everyone's favorite time of year, it is particularly important for low-income taxpayers and our Tax Team. Many Ohioans find tax filing daunting, especially when facing potential IRS issues. Some low-income taxpayers may be unaware of tax breaks and free help that is available to them.
For example, many low-income families qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, a vital income supplement that helps workers keep more of their earnings. They also may be eligible for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, free tax preparation help offered by the IRS at numerous sites throughout our service area.
Our Legal Aid lawyers focus on the legal issues that arise after tax filings, including IRS tax liens, garnishments, or audits. Sometimes a taxpayers’ first instinct may be to ignore those notices thinking that nothing can be done to help their situation, but throughout my years with Legal Aid, I have been continually impressed with the outcomes our Tax Team obtains. From getting IRS mistakes corrected, debts lowered or eliminated, and reasonable payment plans in place, our Team consistently wades through the administrative complexities to make sure low-income taxpayers are protected. With positivity and patience, they guide clients through stressful situations, offering reassurance and solutions when they are needed most.
But our Team does not do it alone. We have been lucky to partner for many years with United Way of Central Ohio, Tax Time, other Legal Aids across the state, and VITA sites to ensure a network of support for low-income taxpayers. Together, we comprise a community that can help low-income taxpayers with needs ranging from routine filings to federal litigation.
If you are an attorney inspired to help support this work, please email probono@lasco.org for info on how you can join our Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) Pro Bono Program!
