Group gets grant from IRS

LANSING, MI--The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has awarded the Asset Independence Coalition (AIC) a $25,900 grant to assist in the preparation of income tax returns for low to moderate income taxpayers in Ingham, Eaton and Clinton counties. AIC recruits and trains volunteers to prepare income tax returns for local residents. The grant money will allow AIC to facilitate electronic filing through the of purchase laptop computers, improve and expand volunteer training and increase the overall number of residents served. Last year, AIC assisted in the preparation of returns that brought $2.7 million dollars in refunds in to the tri-county area. "It's a win-win. Obviously, we have a positive impact on the taxpayer who is getting the refund. But we also have a positive macro impact on the local economy, by bringing in millions of dollars to the area that will likely be spent in local businesses," said Ingham County Treasurer and AIC Co-Chair Eric Schertzing. "We all benefit when our local residents take advantage of proper tax credits and get their proper refunds." Anyone in need of income tax preparation assistance can get connected to AIC by calling 211 and anyone interested in volunteering to prepare taxes can call (517) 256-1466. Published: Mon, Nov 28, 2011