Yamhill County's low-income residents in need of a helping hand come tax season are in luck. According to a recent announcement on the Oregon Department of Revenue's website, the McMinnville Public Library will be the site of a valuable service on April 7. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., eligible taxpayers will receive assistance to file their tax returns and potentially claim federal and state tax credits, which could sum up to thousands of dollars.
The service, which includes guidance on using IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon to e-file for free, comes after more than 10 percent of returns in Yamhill County for the tax year 2022 claimed both the federal Earned Income Tax Credit and the Oregon Earned Income Credit. The IRS, however, estimates that an additional 25 percent of eligible Oregonians are not claiming these credits, as detailed by the Department of Revenue.
Not only can families making up to $66,819 benefit from a federal tax credit reaching as high as $7,830, but they could also claim up to $940 from the Oregon Earned Income Credit on their state tax return. Add the possibility of claiming the Oregon Kids Credit, and this could amount to as much as $5,000. These refundable credits can be received by eligible taxpayers, regardless of whether or not they have a filing requirement, but they must file a federal and state tax return to do so.
Preparation is key for those planning to attend the McMinnville event. Taxpayers should consult the IRS's Eligibility Checker, set up an IRS online account through ID.me, and ensure they have a Revenue Online account as well. As instructed by the Department of Revenue, participants are advised to bring identification and tax documents, including social security cards, government picture IDs, and income-related forms such as W2 and 1099.
