Lincoln County locals looking for a hand with their taxes this year might want to clear their calendars for March 11. The Toledo Public Library, at 173 NW 7th Street, will host a free tax assistance event featuring volunteers from the Oregon Department of Revenue, ready to assist taxpayers with the IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon systems.
According to details released by the Oregon Department of Revenue, there's a sizeable chunk of the populace, approximately 7,800 people in Lincoln County, who may qualify for the free service at the library from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Off the bat, future attendees are encouraged to check their eligibility for IRS Direct File using the IRS's online tool and to get their affairs in order by setting up necessary online accounts with both the IRS through ID.me and the Department's Revenue Online.
For a better grasp of what's in store, the department has rolled out some how-to videos, linked on their Free Direct File assistance at local libraries page. They range from overviews of the Direct File systems to tutorials on setting up the aforementioned online accounts. When D-Day arrives, attendants should be armed with a bevy of documents: everything from identification and social security cards to income and tax forms, and, if they're eyeing that sweet, sweet direct deposit, their bank details.
Now, here's the kicker—not all tax situations fit into the IRS Direct File mold. If you have dividends or capital gains to report on Form 1099-DIV, you'll need to look elsewhere. That said, the department's website offers alternative free options and assistance resources. Those ineligible for IRS Direct File may still benefit by using Direct File Oregon for their state returns. Additionally, there's unclaimed cash on the table—the IRS estimates that about 25 percent of eligible Oregonians are not claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). That’s a significant amount left unclaimed—nearly $100 million in 2020.
For individuals who like to stay informed year-round, the Oregon Department of Revenue is suggesting a simple solution: sign up for their "Oregon Tax Tips" email newsletter. Tax season can be stressful, but these free services can make it easier.
