Tax Referrals & Resources
Where to send callers for free tax help, what tax credits matter for people with disabilities (EITC, CTC, Saver's Credit), and what NOT to advise.
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TAX REFERRALS & RESOURCES — Q&A FORMAT
(Source: Tax Referrals and Resources Job Aid)
General Guidance
Q: What is the purpose of the Tax Referrals and Resources Job Aid?
A: It helps Hub staff know where to refer people with tax-related questions, especially when questions involve employment, income, or Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) programs. Neither the Hub nor DHS can answer specific tax-impact questions.
Q: Who is the intended audience for this job aid?
A:
- Hub Options Counselors (including Seniors, Experts, CCBs, Leads)
- Hub Operations Supervisors and Directors
Q: Why can’t Hub staff answer tax questions for individuals?
A: Only tax professionals, the IRS, or eligibility workers can give guidance on how income impacts taxes or benefits. Hub staff must not provide individual tax advice.
Q: What general reminder should be given when someone has complex tax questions?
A: Always encourage them to seek help from a qualified tax professional for accurate, reliable guidance.
General Tax Questions
Q: What should I do if someone has questions about their taxes?
A:
- Inform them the Hub cannot answer specific tax questions or provide tax preparation advice.
- Refer them to:
- A tax professional, or
- The Minnesota Department of Revenue
- Provide IRS Notice 2014-7 (Difficulty of Care Payments) if relevant.
HCBS Income Questions (PCA/CFSS, CDCS, CSG)
Q: What if someone has questions about income they received for providing HCBS services to a spouse or minor child?
A: Refer them to their Fiscal Management Services (FMS) provider, who may answer specific payroll or tax-related questions.
Q: What if the person already has an FMS provider?
A: Guide them back to their FMS provider for assistance, especially with employer taxes or payroll questions.
Program-Specific Tax and Benefits Concerns
Q: Does HCBS income affect eligibility for other county benefits programs?
A: Refer the person to their County or Tribal Office for accurate, program-specific eligibility guidance.
Q: What should I do if someone has tax questions about a Minnesota Health Care Program or cash program?
A: Direct them to:
- The Eligibility Policy Manual (for MN health care programs), or
- The Combined Manual (for cash and food programs), or
- Their County/Tribal Office for detailed guidance.
Tax Preparation Resources
Q: Where can I refer someone who needs free or low-cost help filing taxes?
A: Several programs offer free tax preparation:
Q: What is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program?
A: IRS-certified volunteers offer free tax help to:
- People with disabilities
- Individuals earning $60,000 or less
- Limited-English speakers
Q: What is AARP Tax-Aide?
A: Provides free tax preparation, focused on low- to moderate-income taxpayers—especially those age 50+.
Q: What does the National Disability Institute (NDI) offer?
A: Resources and guidance on free tax preparation for people with disabilities, including information about:
- Tax credits
- Deductions
- Income exclusions
Q: Where can someone find Minnesota Department of Revenue free tax preparation sites?
A: Direct them to the Minnesota Department of Revenue website for locations and details.
Q: What is MyFreeTaxes?
A: A United Way/211-supported program offering free tax preparation for individuals and families with an AGI of $73,000 or less.
Q: What is Prepare + Prosper?
A: A nonprofit providing:
- Free tax preparation
- Financial coaching
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