Hundreds of WNYers enjoy free tax filing

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - The people who can least afford a tax preparer are the ones who need every dollar back the most when they file their returns.

When it comes to our taxes, especially in a down economy, every dollar counts. And that's why close a hundred people came to Belmont Housing Resources in Buffalo to have their taxes done for free as part of Super Refund Saturday.

Danny Castro said, "This is one of the best programs that I've ever been to. I come here every year."

The event is also put on by Key Bank and a handful of volunteers who have been trained to give you back the full return you deserve.

"With everything going up except salary, it's good. I'll always keep coming to this. As long as I'm still under there salary wise, I'll still come here," added Castro.

This is the first time Michelle Dobson came to the event and recommends others to also give it a try.

Dobson said, "It's free and the personalities, you've got good people and your taxes will be done correctly, it's always good to have someone double checking."

Liz Huckabone of Belmont Housing Resources said, "Our clients often go to regular tax preparers and pay a lot of money to get this done. So it saves them money and it also introduces them to the earned income tax credit because that's something we hope they can take advantage of."

For those who don't know, the earned tax credit is for those who have low wages. It usually means more money for you and reduces the amount of tax you owe.

And new this year in New York state, all tax preparations need to be e-filed. Not doing that, could cost you a $25 dollar fine.

There are always some other new tax laws depending on your income level which you should ask your tax preparer about.

Several other free tax preparations are still available in the Buffalo area for free.

Visit http://www.cashbuffalo.org/sitepages/RESOURCES_tax_prep.html for more information.