Eligible low-income taxpayers in Harney County have an opportunity to get some help filing their taxes and potentially claiming thousands in federal and state tax credits courtesy of a free tax event organized by the Oregon Department of Revenue. Set for April 2 at the Harney County Library, located at 80 West D Street in Burns, the event promises to aid attendees in using both IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon for electronic filing without a fee, as reported by an Oregon government news release.
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Oregon Earned Income Credit (EIC) were claimed by over 17 percent of Harney County residents for the 2022 tax year. Still, with the IRS estimating that 25 percent of eligible Oregon taxpayers neglect claiming these benefits, this tax event seems to be just the right push to make sure more locals maximize their returns, especially since some eligible for the EITC and EIC might also qualify for the Oregon Kids Credit, adding up to $5,000 more. The purpose of this event is to encourage more locals, possibly among the 1,000 estimated to be eligible, to use these free tools, which let them file both federal and state taxes for the first time this year—to potentially receive significant credits, especially for families with low income.
Before heading to the library, taxpayers are encouraged to check their eligibility using the IRS's tool, set up an IRS online account via ID.me, and also create a Revenue Online account, with detailed how-to videos readily provided on the department’s website. They should pack a series of important documents, including their social security cards or ITINs for everyone listed on their tax return, a government photo ID, and common income documents like W2 and 1099 forms, as well as optionally, their bank details for direct deposit and last year's tax return.
However, those with dividends on Form 1099-DIV or capital gains or losses are ineligible. Those who can't leverage IRS Direct File for their federal return can still use Direct File Oregon for their state filings, with additional free options and assistance sites outlined on the revenue agency's website—so even if IRS Direct File is off the table, there's still a path forward for state returns.
The initiative is a key step in providing access and understanding of tax benefits, ensuring that those who stand to benefit the most from these credits, particularly low-income families, are not left struggling during tax season. Full event details and instructions for taxpayers are accessible through the state of Oregon's official website.
