Free tax filing offered at Judson University for low-income families

Starting Saturday, the Elgin Center for Economic Progress is opening a tax help site at Judson University in Elgin.

Certified volunteers will offer free tax preparation services and legal assistance to low-income families through April 18 at the college's Lindner Tower, 435 Hazel Drive, Elgin. Hours are 5:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

Trained and certified volunteer tax preparers will help with claims for Earned Income Tax Credit, which reduces the amount of taxes owed and can yield a large tax refund - more than $2,000 on average. Volunteers also will help people open a savings account or obtain a prepaid debit card to store refunds. Center clients are covered by its attorneys and enrolled agents to represent them anytime the Internal Revenue Service or Illinois Department of Revenue challenges their tax returns.

Residents should bring the following documents: all W-2 and 1099 forms for the year in question, Social Security cards or ITINs, for all family members, a valid photo ID, a copy of the previous year's tax return (if possible), bank account number and routing number if direct deposit of refund is desired, property tax bill, the amount spent on college expenses, proof of health insurance coverage or a certificate of exceptions, and any letters from the IRS.

For more information, visit economicprogress.org or call (312) 252-0280.