Immigrants Can Get Help in Filing State Taxes (VIDEO)
The filing tax deadline is fast approaching and Comptroller of Maryland Peter Franchot wants to raise awareness among the immigrant community about the services offered at the state’s office in Wheaton.
During a conversation with members of the local media on March 30, Franchot stressed that his staff often engages with the immigrant population to help them with tax preparation, registering business accounts, or to issue Maryland Vehicle Administration certification letters.
“We appreciate the contribution to the economy of the Latino community. … They provide a much greater contribution to the economy … Everyone has a very strong ethic, entrepreneurial spirit, motivation because many of them are taking care of families,” Franchot said.
The MVA certification letters is one of the requirements for undocumented immigrants to acquire a Maryland driver’s license if they show two years of state income tax filings- a measure part of the Maryland Highway Act of 2013.
“Because of the MVA process we process those applications. I think we’ve done about eighty five thousand so far,” he said.
Staffers at the Westfield Wheaton South Building office has people who speak English, Spanish and Portuguese, and they are busy. Revenue Specialist Rodolfo Yator said close to 100 people stop by every day during tax season.
“They’re asking abut their personal income tax return. … They’re asking about their refund,” Yator said.
According to staff, the Wheaton office can only assist taxpayers with state taxes. When it comes to Federal tax preparation, staff can share information about resources available in Montgomery County.
The deadline to file your taxes is April 15. For more information, click here.
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