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Did you know many of our learners pay high fees and interest rates to access basic financial services that they could be using through a bank or credit union?
A new community initiative, Bank On North Sound, is a collection of community organizations, financial institutions and government agencies that offers free or low cost starter and second chance accounts through 12 participating banks/credit unions in the North Puget Sound region. These accounts are helpful for immigrants and other individuals who need a bank account. All of these banks and credit unions accept national IDs from other countries, such as the Mexican Matricula card. More information is available at www.bankonwashington.org/north-sound.
An individual with an earned income between $1 and $51,000 from 2012, may qualify for the earned income tax credit. Depending on family size and income, you could get up to $5,890 back from the IRS. In order to claim this credit, you must file a tax return before April 15, 2013.
Free Tax Preparation
Don't pay to have your tax return prepared! Get it done for FREE at one of the tax preparation sites in Whatcom County. Check out www.whatcomabc.org/taxesfor a list of site locations, dates and times.
If you have any additional questions about tax season 2013, call 360-746-0321.
Brynn Smith, a new WLC ELL tutor is also an AmeriCorps VISTA member serving with the Opportunity Council and the Whatcom Asset Building Coalition. She would be happy to answer any questions about Bank On North Sound, free tax preparation services, or any other financial literacy programs in our community. She can be contacted at
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