Accounting Aid Society provides tax assistance and promotes the economic self-sufficiency of low-income families, seniors and others in need through volunteerism and partnerships.

Description:
Accounting Aid operates one of the nation's largest free low-income tax assistance programs. In 2008, more than 700 volunteers assisted over 12,500 families at 26 tax preparation sites in southeastern Michigan. Our clients receive much-needed credits and refunds such as the Earned Income Credits, Homestead Property Credits, and Home Heating Credits.

Volunteer training in the tax law and use of the computers is scheduled each January. Volunteers use laptop computers and file many returns electronically. Tax preparation sites are open Saturdays and some evenings during the tax season -- late January through mid-April. In the summer months, tax services are available for low-income people who did not meet current or past year tax deadlines.

Along with individual volunteers -- from college-age students to retirees -- we receive tax volunteers and other support from organizations such as Masco Corporation, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Michigan, DTE Energy, Ford Motor Company, GM Tech Center, Comerica and the Michigan Association of CPAs, among others.

Accounting Aid offers year-round tax assistance, counseling and related services.

For those whose primary language is not English, regardless of income, we provide free information about tax rights and responsibilities through our Low-Income Tax Clinic, funded by the IRS. This includes help with federal tax issues including Individual Tax Identification Numbers, filing requirements and credits.

Assistance for low-income taxpayers in resolving tax disputes with the IRS is also part of our Low-Income Tax Clinic services through a partnership with the Legal Aid and Defender Association. Dispute assistance includes audits, EITC denials, collection liens and levies and help in obtaining innocent and injured spouse relief, installment agreements and offers in compromise.

History:
Accounting Aid Society was founded in 1972 by a group of accountants interested in serving their community. The Tax Assistance Program was started in 1976. Since then, Accounting Aid has returned more than $146 million in tax returns and credits to low-income individuals and families.

Contact people:

Marshall Hunt, Director, Tax assistance Program, 313-647-9620, ext. 208, (email) Angela Gabridge, Volunteer Coordinator, (313) 647-9620, (email)

Address:

7700 Second Avenue, Suite 314 Detroit, MI 48202 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.accountingaidsociety.org

Directions:

Our administrative offices are located in the New Center area of Detroit. Our tax preparation sites are located throughout Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Livingston countites, in libraries, community centers, and other public sites.

Last updated on September 14, 2009