CA$H Maine

Creating Assets, Savings & Hope

photo of calculator and note - reminder about tax credits

Know Your Refundable Tax Credits

Posted January 29, 2025

The 2025 tax season has begun. This year, there are a number of refundable tax credits that can actually put money in your pocket. Here is a list of  credits with links for more information. If you’re getting help with tax preparation, ask your preparer about eligibility. Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) The Earned Income… Read more

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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Prioritizing bills

Posted March 24, 2020

Tips from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). For expenses like utilities, phone and internet, mortgages, or insurance, many providers are offering flexibility to customers facing financial strain. Check with your service providers or contact 211 for special resources available in your area. Making a short-term plan can help you identify the consequences of failing… Read more