State Employees' Credit Union in Raleigh, N.C., is gearing up to help members save money through various tax preparation services, including the no-cost Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service and SECU's own low cost tax preparation service. 

In 2011, credit union tax preparers filed over 53,000 returns with members of the $23 billion SECU receiving $82 million in refunds and saving $7.9 million in tax preparation fees.

From Jan. 23 through April 17, 2012, members can contact any of SECU's 239 branches to schedule an appointment with a local SECU tax preparer. 

Members with basic tax return needs and a 2011 household income of $50,000 or less may qualify for the no-cost VITA program.  For those with basic return needs who surpass the $50,000 income limit, SECU's low cost tax preparation program is an option at just $75 per return.  Electronic filing is available with both services.

“For the last few years, SECU has had great success assisting members through free and low cost tax prep services, helping them keep more of their money for life's necessities,” said Tenesha Carter, SECU senior vice president of tax preparation services.