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Community Forum on 211, Earned Income Tax Credit, Consumer Scams |
The Binghamton Office of the Attorney General of NYS, in partnership with  United Way of Tompkins County and the Human Services Coalition, held a Community Forum on June 2, 2010 about Consumer Scams,
2-1-1, and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Dennis McCabe, Assistant Attorney General, presented information on email, phone and mail scams, which often target senior citizens and increasingly target students. Mr. McCabe reported that scammers are getting more creative in their methods and stressed the importance of verifying any correspondence you receive before giving personal information or money, even if the call or email appears to be coming from a friend. More information on consumer frauds can be found at the Attorney General's website.
Fran Spadafora Manzella, 2-1-1 Tompkins County Call Center Manager, presented a overview of available services through dialing 2-1-1. A call to 2-1-1 provides you with information and referrals to local services, businesses and recreational activities. 2-1-1 can be accessed by using a landline, cell phone, or through live chat on the Human Services Coalition website.
Earned Income Tax Credit presenters, Lillian Hartman from Lifelong and Brian Zapf from Alternatives Federal Credit Union (AFCU) explained how eligible filers claiming the EITC on a return can result in a greater refund. This year EITC refunds in Tompkins County totaled $1,542,581. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Programs through Lifelong and AFCU provide free tax preparation for Tompkins County residents. This unique partnership is serving as a model for increased efforts across New York State to provide information on critical services and increase public awareness for ongoing and emerging issues. If you have any questions or would like additional information please contact Meg Cole, United Way of Tompkins County. |
