MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – United Way of Marquette County has issued a reminder to plan ahead for this upcoming tax season, as refunds will no longer be sent by mail.
In March, an executive order was signed to phase out paper checks or disbursements, including tax refunds. United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax preparation for qualifying individuals and their families.
The VITA program recommends those who regularly rely on paper statements to:
- Open a checking account at a local bank or credit union to ensure direct deposits.
- Confirm account information early.
- Be aware of other changes tax changes that might affect this year’s returns.
VITA Coordinator Karen Anderson says these changes will improve safety, time, and efficiency within our tax season.
“First of all, it’s to protect the taxpayer,” she said. “The Treasury says that there is 16 times the chance of theft, loss, or undeliverable returns if it’s done through paper versus a direct deposit. Also with the time element, it takes about six weeks to get a paper refund, versus only about 21 days for the direct deposit.”
United Way of Marquette County says they will continue addressing the community with any more upcoming changes as the spring approaches.
For more information, visit uwmqt.org or call 906-226-8171.
