HOME & MONEY

The Benefit Bank of Indiana

Purdue Extension is offering a new and free online service to help low- and moderate- income residents of Indiana file their income tax returns.  

In today’s economy more people are looking to squeeze every dollar out of their tax returns. The Benefit Bank helps Hoosiers complete and electronically file their federal and state income tax returns. Tax filers want a less stressful tax filing experience and all the tax return dollars they are eligible for. The Benefit Bank’s free tax-filing self-service edition is available to anyone earning less than $60,000 and access to a computer with an Internet connection. Accessible at www.thebenefitbank.com, this tax-filing service is free of charge. Families or individuals can also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through self-service.  The online service takes the information from the tax returns and assists in completion of the FAFSA form.

For help in completing paperwork to apply for benefits such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (food stamps), individuals need to meet with a Benefit Bank counselor at a site sponsored by a community-based organization.   

Fountain County Benefit Bank site is located at: 

West Central Regional Community Corrections
119 North Main Street
Veedersburg, IN
765-294-3100 
  

Focus on Financial Management

The program, Focus on Financial Management, was created by Purdue Extension to help participants gain financial knowledge and confidence so they can establish financial management practices that will improve their financial security.  Each workshop will include a guest speaker and small-group discussion.  Worksheets will be provided as homework. 

The program will include information on:  Getting Organized, Money Personalities and Communication, Figuring Your Net Worth, Risk Management, Savings and Investments, Credit Cards, Life's Challenges and Retirement. 

For registration information, contact the Extension Office at 793-2297.