LANSING – State Representative Jeff Mayes (D-Bay City) has made available a tax preparation guide on his Web site, mayes.housedems.com, to assist Bay County residents with their taxes. Mayes will also be distributing the new Michigan Taxpayer's Guide to Bay County township offices and city halls, and encourages residents to take advantage of these money-saving resources.
"With April 15 fast approaching, it's time for residents to start taking care of their taxes," Mayes said. "On my Web site, visitors can download a tax preparation checklist, get information about e-filing, and find how to get help preparing their taxes. The Michigan Taxpayer's Guide also has information that will help visitors get the most out of their tax returns, so they can hold on to more of their hard-earned money."
Visitors to Mayes' Web site can click on the "Tax Help" section in order to get information about available tax credits that they may be able to take advantage of, including the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Michigan Home Heating Credit, and the First-Time Homebuyer Credit. Residents also can download a tax preparation checklist that will help them get organized as gather the materials needed to prepare their taxes.
The latest edition of the Michigan Taxpayer's Guide, published by the Michigan Legislature with assistance from the Michigan Department of Treasury, explains state taxes and tax credits for the 2008 tax year, offering simple explanations of everything from the homestead property tax credit to how to apply for a winter deferral tax. It contains tax forms, a year-long taxpayer's calendar of important dates and deadlines, and contact information for additional resources.
The guide is also available online at the Michigan Legislature Web site.
Residents who do not have access to the Internet and who are unable to pick up a free guide can call Mayes toll-free at (866) 737-0096 to request a guide, or e-mail jeffmayes@house.mi.gov if they have any questions or concerns.