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Trump targets DEI and civil service protections, striking fear in some federal workers; WA bill would expand automatic voter registration; IA farmers on board with corn-based jet fuel; New wildfire near Los Angeles explodes to 8,000 acres, forces evacuations; ND back on familiar ground in debating ballot-question threshold.

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Trump's pardons of January 6th participants spark mixed reactions, federal DEI suspensions raise equity concerns, diversity in medicine faces challenges post-affirmative action and Citizens United continues to amplify big money in politics.

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Winter blues? Alaskans cure theirs at the Cordova Iceworm Festival, Trump's energy plans will impact rural folks, legislation in Virginia aims to ensure rural communities get adequate EV charging stations, and a retreat for BIPOC women earns rave reviews.

WA Tax Program Puts Out Call for Volunteers as Year Ends

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Monday, November 28, 2022   

It may seem early, but programs across the country are preparing to help people with their 2022 income tax returns.

In Washington state, United Way of King County is calling for volunteers for its free tax-preparation program.

Ryan McFerran, program manager of tax credits and financial stability for the organization, said they rely on hundreds of volunteers each year. He pointed out there are a couple of different volunteer roles, including tax preparers who get to serve people directly.

"In most cases they get to tell those people that they're going to be receiving some money, in the form of a tax refund and other financial assistance," McFerran observed. "Which is typically pretty rewarding for volunteers."

McFerran pointed out the program will be offered on-site and virtually. He emphasized people do not need tax-prep experience to volunteer. There will be five training opportunities, with the first happening this weekend, and the last in mid-January. The program also is looking for community intake specialists who will assist at tax sites.

McFerran noted when they file their income taxes, low and middle-income families are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit, which he sees as one of the federal government's most vital anti-poverty programs.

"Taxes are actually a really great way to access the cash that they may need in order to cover their basic expenses, put a little bit more food on the table," McFerran outlined. "Maybe they have an overdue utility bill that they need to pay."

He also explained the Working Families Tax Credit will be widely available to families in Washington state, including those who are undocumented. He added people looking to apply for the credit should visit a tax-preparation site.

Disclosure: The United Way of King County contributes to our fund for reporting on Community Issues and Volunteering, Education, Housing/Homelessness, and Human Rights/Racial Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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