EnglishSpanish

Community groups are planning to kick off the 2016 tax season with a community event on Saturday, Jan. 30, 10 am to 4 pm, at Union Station.

Those attending will have an opportunity to have their taxes completed for free (incomes of $53,000 or below).

The event is sponsored by United Way of Greater Kansas City and Next Step KC.

Trained volunteers will be available to help individuals prepare tax returns.

The community fair will also include representatives to help with other financial needs including the Affordable Care Act, MyRA, Earned Income Tax Credits and U.S. Savings Bonds.

MyRA is an opportunity to start a retirement account for individuals who do not have employer plans. Investments are made in U.S. Treasury bonds. There are no costs or fees, no complicated investment options, and no risk of losing money.

The fun event will also include a photo booth where individuals can take pictures of financial goals they have — buying a house, graduation, saving, eliminating credit card debt.

Next Step KC does volunteer tax preparation throughout the Kansas City region. Click here for locations and hours of operation.

There is an opportunity to file tax for FREE online through www.myfreetaxes.org for households making less than $62,000. The online tool uses software developed by the Kansas City-based H&R Block.