Financial Stability Resources & Tools 

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Sponsored by United Way, The Repository, SARTA and United Way’s 2-1-1

The event is free to the public and will feature exhibits and educational presentations from community experts. Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) will provide free transportation  from Alliance, Massillon and Canton to and from Timken High School from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.Click here for more information about speakers, exhibitors and free services offered.

Stark County Saves Week – Jan. 30 through Feb. 6, 2010

Sponsored by United Way’s Financial Stability Partnership committee

Building wealth starts when you set a goal and make a plan to reach that goal– whether it’s buying a car, buying a house, or getting out from under your debts. During Stark County Saves Week, residents will be encouraged to assess their savings practices and take action to advance their progress. United Way’s Financial Stability Partnership’s goal is to raise awareness about savings strategies and give greater Stark County residents simple tips on the best ways to save. Click here for more information about Stark County Saves.

Free Tax Preparation Services & Sites – through Apr. 15

Need help with your taxes? Find the nearest site to you!

Certified volunteers from the federal VITA program, Ohio Benefit Bank and AARP receive training to help prepare basic tax returns at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls and other convenient locations. Most locations also offer free electronic filing. Individuals taking advantage of the e-file program will receive their refunds in half the time compared to returns filed on paper – even faster if you have your refund deposited directly into your bank account! Click here to find out how and where to get your taxes prepared.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) benefit – through Apr. 15

Find out if you qualify for a credit of up to $5,600!

One of the largest federal  benefit programs for working taxpayers is also one of the most overlooked tax credits. It’s called the Earned Income Tax Credit and it’s for people who work but don’t make a lot of money. Last year, EITC returned more than $5 million to Ohio residents. Yet, IRS estimates that up to one in four eligible taxpayers fail to file and claim their credit. Dial United Way’s 2-1-1 Information & Referral line to find out if you might qualify or click here to find out more about the EITC eligibility requirements.

Financial Tools for Your Workforce – through Apr. 15

Online tools and resources to help employees with financial stability

United Way’s Financial Stability Partnership has assembled promotional tools for use by workplaces and organizations to increase awareness of the 2010 Financial Fair, Stark County Saves Week, the EITC tax benefit for taxpayers, access to free tax return preparation information and access to health and human services United Way’s 2-1-1 Information and Referral line offers. In addition, Financial Stability Partnership volunteers can be schedule to give tips and professional advice at presentations at your workplace. Click here for online promotional tools and to schedule a financial stability presentation for your employees.