Income Management
At CPCA, we understand that it can be difficult for a family or individual to maintain a budget on a fixed income. We can assist you in tracking your expenses and income, help you save for emergencies and considerable necessary purchases, and create a better life for you and your family through one of our income management programs.
Family Savings Account Program
Central Pennsylvania Community Action, Inc. administers a Family Savings Account Program.
This Family Savings Account program provides the opportunity for low-income consumers of Centre and Clearfield Counties to build assets and increase self-sufficiency by savings plan development, financial education and savings. CPCA provides support and assistance to develop good saving habits, basic financial planning, homeownership education and personal budgeting.
The FSA program addresses the needs of home ownership, home repair, transportation, education expenses, and small business initiatives identified by CPCA The FSA program provides a missing, essential link in the continuum of service by helping low-income individuals and families build a future of economic independence.
Low-income individuals and families will be assisted through this program that have a family income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Services provided will include intake, basic needs, savings action plan, financial education workshops, counseling, case management,and program administration.
Eligible clients are required to save a minimum of $10.00 per week for at least one year and up to two years. At the end of that period, they may use the accumulated savings plus a 100% match from the Department of Community Economic Development (DCED) for specified predetermined use (purchase of home, home improvements, continuing education, expenses, transportation,entrepreneurial activities).
EITC VITA TAX Program
Money In Your Pocket is an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Program promoted by the Internal Revenue Service and involves volunteers helping community members who cannot afford professional tax assistance.
EITC is a federal income tax credit for low and moderate income working families and individuals. This credit can increase the amount of the refund or reduce the amount of taxes owed.Many residents who are eligible for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) paid a tax preparer to file their annual return. Some families can pay as much as $300 for tax preparation including special offers and quick return of refunds.
Money In Your Pocket helps these families and individuals from paying some of the high costs associated with paying a preparer and participating in the rapid anticipation loans. Trained Volunteer Tax Assistors explain the many special credits and deductions available and how people may claim them on their tax returns. Volunteers will help individuals complete and electronically file their returns all for free. Refunds can be received in as little as 7 days with a bank direct deposit.
Please call CPCA (814-755-1551)to find the nearest VITA site to you
