C.A.S.H Team Preps for 2007-2008 Tax Season

October 1, 2007

The C.A.S.H. team is in the midst of preparing for the 2007-2008 tax season. C.A.S.H. - Creating Assets, Savings, and Hope - is a community coalition led by Empire Justice Center and the United Way of Greater Rochester.  C.A.S.H. helps working individuals and families earning less than $40,000 annually make the most of their money and build stronger financial futures.

C.A.S.H. operates free tax preparation sites during tax season to help low-income workers:

• take advantage of the Earned Income Tax Credit
• save on exorbitant tax preparation fees
• find alternatives to predatory lending practices
• maximize financial assets through financial education, credit repair, and asset building strategies

During the 2006/2007 tax season, more than 500 volunteers, in 16 different locations, helped 12,218 Monroe County households receive $17.4 million in federal and state tax refunds, of which $9.3 million was a result of the EIC.  This year, C.A.S.H.’s goal is to recruit 600 volunteers and reach more than 13,000 households.

Being a C.A.S.H. volunteer is about more than just taxes. Volunteer roles include: Front Desk Managers, C.A.S.H. Advisors and Tax Preparers.  No experience is necessary.  C.A.S.H. will provide all of the training and materials.  Volunteers must be comfortable with computers.  Sign language interpreters and bi-lingual volunteers are very welcome.  To learn more about volunteer opportunities with C.A.S.H., email cash@empirejustice.org or call Candice Lucas at 585.295.5733.