Group helps low income Iowans claim tax credits

A program in Central Iowa is helping low income Iowans make the most out of the tax credits they’ll get this year. The Institute for Social and Economic Development is working in partnership with the I-R-S providing free tax preparation for low income residents to help them identify the various tax credits and refunds they’re allowed. Debra Carr is the director of the Des Moines office of the institute.Last year they served over 500 families and those families received 540-thousand dollars. Carr says one of the biggest benefits available is the Earned Income Tax Credit for families who make under 32-thousand dollars a year.She says they’ve found most people aren’t even aware they’re eligible for the credit, and once they sign up, they’re able to boost their available income substantially. She says the institute helps the families reinvest the rebate money.She says they access programs that help them make a down payment on a home or go back to school, so they’re making good choices in using the refund money. Carr’s program has centered on Des Moines, but they hope to expand it farther into central Iowa. Carr says there are other programs around the state doing the same thing to help low income Iowans.