This post is for my readers in Monroe County, Mich.

This is the fifth year that Monroe County Community Credit Union and its non-profit partners have sponsored the “Just File It!” free tax preparation service for Monroe County residents.

This web-based program is aimed at low- to moderate-income individuals and families and provides free computer access and e-filing service for federal and Michigan income tax refunds. The credits that may apply include the federal Earned Income Tax Credit which can be as high as $4,536 depending on the financial and household circumstances.

The program is available via the credit union’s web site at www.mcccu.org. Those involved with the partnership include United Way of Monroe County, Monroe County Opportunity Program, Monroe County Library System, Michigan Works! – Monroe Service Center, AFL-CIO Services Program, Monroe County Community College and Monroe County Senior Legal Services.

“Each partner is helping in their own area,” said Connie Carroll, executive director of the United Way of Monroe County. “Library branches are offering free computer use, MCOP is taking appointments to assist with taxes, financial institutions are offering financial education, and individuals are encouraged to visit the IRS.gov web site to become certified in tax preparation.”

There are a variety of federal and state tax credits, in addition to the EITC, that can benefit low- to moderate-income individuals who file income tax returns and those who are except from filing requirements. The federal tax credits include the Child Tax Credit and Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit. The Michigan tax credits include the Home Heating Tax Credit, the Homestead Property Tax Credit and the Child Deduction.

Last year’s “Just File It!” campaign assisted 100 Monroe residents in receiving almost $200,000 in the form of tax refunds and credits. The 2009 refunds for this demographic are expected to be much higher.

For information about this program, call the United Way at (734) 242-1331 or 211.