Tax season is upon us and many folks are already filing their taxes.

As Meghan Hayward tells us, there are a few new credits that you may want to check out.

There have been a number of changes to federal income tax laws that may allow folks to receive a larger refund this tax season.

"This year, there's the making work pay credit which is for people who are working but not making a lot of money and they can get a credit of up to 800 dollars."

In addition, there's a tax credit for first-time home-buyers, increased education credits, reduced taxes on unemployment income and a few other new credits.

Steven Colburn, Associate Professor of accounting at the University of Maine, says these added credits are a result of the recession.

"Congress is trying to put more into people's pockets to help them pay out bills, and to get by and also stimulate the economy."

UMaine accounting students are also trying to help taxpayers on a budget file their taxes.

They offer a free service for those with low to moderate incomes.

A program that's been offered for more than 25 years.

"We have people who come back year after year. We are building a clientele in the Orono and Old Town areas."

It's a service that not only helps the taxpayers, but the accounting students too.

"Being able to talk with the person one-on-one gives you that perspective that you can't get in a classroom."

Third-year accounting student Lauren Duplin says she was a little uneasy when working with her first client, but is a lot more confident now.

"First time a little nervous. It's people's taxes. You don't want to be the one to throw a kink in there and mess up any numbers. It's a lot of responsibility but that's part of the job and a great way to prepare myself to be an accountant after college."

If you would like to learn more about the free service or set up an appointment you can call Professor Steven Colburn at 581-1982.

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