Tax Clinic FAQs
“Western Community Action tax volunteers put the ‘FUN’ in ReFUNd!”
How do I make an appointment?
You can make an appointment for either tax clinic by calling our Marshall office. 507-537-1416
Do you accept walk-in customers?
Yes, while we encourage appointments, walk-in customers may be served.
However, generally the wait time for walk-in customers is longer.
Where are your tax sites located and what are your hours?
Marshall: Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30pm to 9pm, Saturday 9am-1pm
Jackson: Thursday evening only 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Can you do any types of returns?
Volunteers are only able to prepare returns that they have been trained so complete. Some examples of returns we are not able to complete are: complicated self-employment, farm, returns with active duty military pay, and returns where there has been cancellation of debt unless it is for the mortgage foreclosure of your main residence. If you are unsure if we will be able to complete your return, please contact our office.
How are your volunteers trained?
Volunteers are trained annually on new tax law and our software via the guidelines set by the Internal Revenue Service. They must complete an IRS certification test before preparing any returns. Many of our volunteers complete intermediate and advanced IRS training.
Do you have income guidelines?
Yes, our income guidelines for 2009 returns are $30,000 for individuals and $45,000 for families of 2 or more. However, some exceptions are made for large families and those who have recently lost some of their household income. If you are unsure if you meet our guidelines, please contact our office.
Can you do my out of state return?
Our Jackson office has volunteers trained to complete Iowa returns. No other out of state returns will be prepared. However, we would still be able to complete your federal return, and a MN return if you need that done as well.
What if I need multiple years completed?
Western Community Action tax clinic volunteers will prepare returns for up to 2 years prior to the current filing year. If you need additional years’ tax returns completed, you must see a paid preparer or search for an IRS taxpayer assistance center via www.irs.gov .
What is a renter’s credit or property tax return?
A property tax refund is based on your household income and the property taxes paid on your principal place of residence. The refund can be given to either renters or people who own their own home. This return is completed normally at the same time you prepare your state and federal income tax returns, but is a separate form. There is no requirement to file this return, but you may be eligible for a refund, so it is worth checking into. For more information on eligibility, CLICK HERE.
Do I need to file my taxes?
While not all people are required to file, most should. Even if you have not made enough income in order to be required to file, you may want to in order to reclaim any withheld taxes or to receive credits that you are eligible for. If you are unsure about whether or not to file, please contact our office.
Do you offer electronic filing?
Yes, we offer free electronic filing for all current year tax returns that meet the IRS guidelines for electronic filing.
Can I directly deposit my refund into a bank account?
Yes, Western Community Action encourages direct deposit of returns into your bank account. Not only would you receive your refund more quickly, but it is also safer. There has been increased mail theft during the tax return season. If your check is lost or stolen, your receipt of your refund will certainly be delayed while going through the process of the issuance of a replacement check.
How fast can I expect my refund?
Generally, if you electronically file your return, you federal refund will be directly deposited within 2 weeks. State refunds are generally received more quickly. However, Western Community Action has no control over how quickly the IRS or the MN Department of Revenue processes returns. For more information on your refund status, see our “Where’s My Refund?” links.
What if there is bad weather on the day of my appointment?
Western Community Action cares about your safety and the safety of our volunteers. In the case of inclement weather that causes us to need to cancel our tax session for the day/evening, all people with appointments will be called. However, we may not have a large amount of notice. If you believe the weather is questionable, please listen to your local radio station for weather related announcements. Western Community Action will report the cancellation on local radio stations.
