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File your taxes for free: RealSense tax sites open Jan. 19

January 7, 2016

R$_KickOff_1-2015_0007It’s tempting. Driving around town, there are signs everywhere promising cash back on those early returns. And if you’re just recovering from holiday expenditures, it might seem like an easy solution.

But wait! Don’t fall into this trap of filing your taxes too early and paying unnecessary fees. United Way of Northeast Florida’s RealSense initiative will open dozens of tax sites across our area on Jan. 19 where qualifying residents can get their taxes filed for FREE.

“Being too hasty to prepare your tax return could result in errors,” said Rebecca Thompson, RealSense Volunteer and Tax Site Manager. “Delays in processing or worse, costly mistakes that necessitate amending the return later on, can lead to having to pay back the IRS for refunds erroneously issued.”

In a recent article, MSN Money listed missing the opportunity to use a free tax preparation service as a top mistake. Take the time to make sure that they’re done properly, for free – RealSense tax preparers are IRS certified and well prepared to help.

Last year, RealSense clients saved more than $4.5 million in paid preparer fees by waiting to file their taxes for free. Our more than 60 sites across Northeast Florida will be open January 19 through April 15. Stay tuned to unitedwaynefl.org/realsense for a list of locations and to learn more.

If you still feel the need to file early or use a paid preparer, the IRS provides tips on what to look for.

Interested in becoming a RealSense volunteer? Click here.