SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Department of Human Services is providing free tax filing assistance to young people and low-income residents through its Tax Infrastructure Grant Program. The initiative funds IRS-certified community organizations, Tribal governments and educators to help workers secure potential refunds.
The program specifically addresses the needs of young people in their first jobs or those working part-time who may be owed refunds for withheld taxes. Even if a young person is claimed as a dependent on a parent or guardian’s return, they must still file their own tax return to report their income. This filing does not interfere with exemptions claimed by parents or guardians.
Teachers at McKay High School in Salem trained approximately 12 students this school year to assist their peers with tax preparation. The student-led clinics used IRS-approved software to help participants prepare their own returns. The program utilized incentives, such as coffee gift cards, to encourage student participation. Marcia Latta, a teacher at McKay High School who facilitates the clinics, said one student received a $269 refund while a recent college graduates received nearly $1,200. “Most get money back. They’re so pleased,” Latta said. “I love that we provide this extra opportunity to our students to develop these skills and it’s great to see them get this money back.”…