United Way launches 2014 recruitment for volunteer tax preparers

NEWTON, N.J. – United Way of Northern New Jersey is seeking the assistance of area residents to sign up as volunteer tax preparers to help low-and moderate-income individuals and families avoid the high cost of preparation fees during the upcoming tax season.

Each year, United Way of Northern New Jersey teams up with the IRS and community partners to offer struggling individuals and families free tax preparation and education about tax credits.

United Way has launched the recruitment campaign for volunteer tax preparers in order to have trained volunteers across the region, including in Sussex County. During the last tax season, hundreds of volunteers helped United Way and its partners file nearly 4,700 tax returns across the northern New Jersey region.

As a result, area residents saved an estimated $940,000 in tax preparation fees. In addition, the service helped these households claim more than $1.8 million in tax credits, taking home a total of $6.7 million in tax refunds.

“Becoming a volunteer tax preparer is a tangible and rewarding way you can make a difference for an individual in need,” said United Way of Northern New Jersey CEO John Franklin. “The more volunteers trained, the more we can help neighbors facing difficult times.”

To become an IRS-certified tax prep volunteer, individuals are required to take a six-hour training course that is offered both by United Way and through online resources.

For more information or to register as a tax preparer, email Monica.Conover@unitedwaynnj.org or call 908.253.6529.

About United Way of Northern New Jersey
United Way of Northern New Jersey is a nonprofit organization working to improve people’s lives and strengthen communities by focusing on Education, Income, and Health.  These are the building blocks for a good life – a quality education that leads to a stable job; the tools needed to achieve financial stability; and good health.  We lead caring communities to create long-lasting changes that transform people’s lives.  Together, united, we can inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow throughout Morris, North Essex, Somerset, Sussex, and Warren counties.  Give.  Advocate.  Volunteer.  LIVE UNITED.  To learn more, call 973.579.3040 or visit www.UnitedWayNNJ.org.

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