CA$H Maine

Creating Assets, Savings & Hope

2021 Advance Child Tax Credit

Posted July 14, 2021

Watch this video with information about the Advance Child Tax Credit from the Economic Security Project. If you are a parent, there is a very good chance you’re about to receive money in monthly payments for every child you have that is 17 years of age or younger. If you are thinking, “What!?” or “Really?”,… Read more

Group of volunteers wearing masks

The Power of Civic Engagement Across Maine’s Institutions of Higher Education

Posted June 17, 2021

American Sign Language Tax Day with student interpreters, CA$H Greater Portland Pictured left to right: Thomas Minch, Alison Stroshane (USM Student), Stephanie Crowley (USM Student), Sarah Vigliano (USM Student), Kerrie Keller, Meryl Troop, Joni Boissoneault and Christie Gaydos. “I would say it is one of the more rewarding things you could possibly do… there is… Read more

young girl with her hands on her mother's face

What’s New about the Child Tax Credit in 2021?

Posted June 1, 2021

Your questions about the Child Tax Credit answered by the GetItBack Campaign What is the Child Tax Credit (CTC)? The Child Tax Credit helps offset the costs of raising kids. The CTC has two components. First, the credit reduces income taxes you owe. If your credit is more than the taxes you owe, you get… Read more

someone looking at a car with the hood up

An Essential Guide to Building an Emergency Fund

Posted April 9, 2021

We all experience unexpected financial emergencies—car repairs, unexpected medical bills, broken appliances, loss of income, or even damaged cell phones. Large or small, these unplanned expenses often feel like they hit at the worst times. Setting up an emergency fund is one important way to protect yourself. By putting money aside for these unplanned expenses,… Read more

items on shelves in a grocery store

Cutting Expenses

Posted May 5, 2020

A tool from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) about how to cut costs and reduce expenses to help you cover daily necessities or save for your goals. Finding ways to reduce your expenses can help you better afford the necessities you can’t live without. It can also give you more money every month to… Read more

Five Benefits of VITA and VITA Volunteers

Posted April 24, 2020

Adapted from an article By Jordan Blakemore, 2020 Get It Back Campaign Intern Each year, thousands of IRS certified volunteers offer their time and expertise at Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites across the country to help millions of Americans file taxes free of charge. VITA is an IRS-sponsored program staffed by volunteers who are… Read more

100 dollar bill and a medical mask

4 Steps to Spending Your Stimulus Check Wisely When You Don’t Have An Emergency Fund

Posted April 22, 2020

Written by Carolyn Pemberton for America Saves, Category: Blog, Published: 09 April 2020 Most Americans don’t have an emergency fund. While we’re all experiencing this pandemic very differently — some having only minor inconveniences and others finding themselves without a job or having to close their business — those without a savings cushion are vulnerable… Read more

100 dollar bills

Economic Impact Payments – IRS Updates, April 10

Posted April 13, 2020

The IRS is committed to helping you get your Economic Impact Payment as soon as possible. The payments, also referred to by some as stimulus payments, are automatic for most taxpayers. No further action is needed by taxpayers who filed tax returns in 2018 and 2019 and most seniors and retirees. Read more here. Who… Read more

Economic impact payments: What you need to know

Posted April 2, 2020

Updated with new information for seniors, retirees on April 1, 2020. Also see Treasury news release. Check IRS.gov for the latest information: No action needed by most people at this time IR-2020-61, March 30, 2020 WASHINGTON — The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service today announced that distribution of economic impact payments will begin in… Read more