The Diocese of Providence offers free tax preparation for qualified individuals and families. The program is staffed by local college and university student volunteers and provides free federal and state income tax return preparation for individuals, families and seniors.
This program will help local families obtain the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Rhode Island Low-Income Housing Tax Credit while avoiding often-costly tax preparation fees. The diocese is one of only a few IRS-certified agencies in the State of Rhode Island to offer this service.
The Diocesan Office of Community Service and Advocacy notes families or individuals must meet the following guidelines: income of $40,000 or less; resident of Rhode Island, Massachusetts or Connecticut; and basic tax returns, including Schedule A. Those filing a Schedule C or declaring profits, loss, rental income or capital gains are not eligible.
To determine eligibility or schedule an appointment, those interested should call 401/421-7833 ext.116 and leave a name and telephone number. Calls will be returned by the appointment scheduler within 24 hours.
All preparers are trained and certified by the IRS to prepare Federal Schedule “A” taxes as well as state income tax for Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The diocese files most returns electronically; therefore, those entitled to a refund will, for the most part, receive a refund check in approximately two weeks. The service is available by appointment only at the listed sites from Mon., Feb. 4 through Tues., April 15. Doors open at 6 p.m. and close at 8 p.m. at the following two locations.
St. Charles Borromeo Church, Woonsocket: Assistance is available at this satellite office on Monday nights only in the church basement, located at the corner of 190 North Main and Daniels streets in Woonsocket. Contact Richard Zawlewski, coordinator, at 401/762-2849.
Project Hope/Proyecto Eperenza, Central Falls: Offers assistance on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights at the Project Hope/Proyecto Esperanza offices, located at 400 Dexter St., Central Falls. Contact James Jahnz, coordinator, at 401/728-0515.
In order for us to prepare and electronically file your taxes you must have the following items with you
• Social Security Cards or ITIN cards for all individuals being claimed on the tax return
• All documents related to reportable income for the year 2007: including W-2’s, 1099s, 1099 INTs
• If you wish to have your refund direct deposited you must bring the following: a voided check and your bank’s routing number
• OF NOTE: A copy of last year tax return if possible is always helpful.
