It has been reported in the media recently that the number of people opting for refund anticipation loans from tax preparers has dropped dramatically in recent years. A significant reason for this decline is likely the many Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites that are operated throughout the country. As the state agency responsible for assistance programs for low-income New Yorkers, the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) sponsors a number of these sites throughout the state.

At these sites low-income workers can have their taxes prepared free of charge and filed electronically by trained volunteers and the taxpayer can have their refund deposited directly to their bank account in about a week. The volunteers will also make sure all Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCS) are claimed to ensure the taxpayer receives the refund they are entitled to and will check to make sure the appropriate credits were claimed for previous tax years as well.

A list of these VITA sites can be accessed at www.otda.state.ny.us.

David Hansell

Albany

Hansell is commissioner NYS

Office of Temporary and

Disability Assistance