Tax season hits hard — and we’re not just talking about the paperwork headache. For many of your residents, it could be a financial lifeline.
Nearly 40% of Americans rely on their tax refund to make ends meet. But this year, getting those refunds might take even longer. With the IRS scaling back its workforce and paper tax returns already taking up to eight weeks to process, even a small delay could throw off entire budgets.
And that’s before you factor in the stress. Kitchen tables don’t exactly make ideal tax prep stations. Neither do crowded coffee shops where prying eyes can catch a glimpse of someone’s W-2. And, let’s be honest, most personal printers run out of ink at exactly the wrong moment.
Here’s where your property can really shine during tax season — if you invest in the right community amenities.
Tax education and workshops
Understanding tax obligations and taking advantage of available credits and deductions can be daunting. Fortunately, the IRS offers various tax education and workshops to help taxpayers navigate these complexities. Residents can attend IRS-sponsored workshops and webinars to learn about important tax topics such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit (CTC) and how to avoid tax scams.
For example, the IRS’s workshop on the EITC covers eligibility, how to claim the credit and how to avoid common errors. This workshop, along with others on the CTC and additional tax credits, provides residents with the knowledge they need to maximize their tax benefits.
The IRS also provides beneficial resources through its Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs), where residents can get face-to-face help with tax issues, including tax return preparation. These centers also offer valuable information on tax credits and deductions that can lead to significant savings.
By taking advantage of these educational resources, residents can better understand their tax obligations and make informed decisions that can lead to substantial financial benefits
Convenience, accessibility and cost savings
When it comes to filing taxes, convenience and accessibility are key. The IRS offers a range of options to make the process smoother and more secure. For instance, electronic filing is the fastest and most accurate way to submit your taxes. Not only does it provide immediate confirmation of receipt and processing, but it also significantly reduces the risk of errors compared to paper filing.
Filing taxes electronically can also lead to significant cost savings. The IRS provides free online and in-person tax preparation options for eligible taxpayers through programs like IRS Free File, IRS Direct File, and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. For example, taxpayers with an income of $84,000 or less last year can use IRS Free File Guided Tax Software now through October 15.
By utilizing these free self-preparation options, residents can avoid the fees typically charged by tax preparation services. For those who prefer professional assistance, choosing a trusted tax professional affiliated with a recognized national tax association can also be a cost-effective option. These resources ensure that residents can meet their tax obligations without breaking the bank, making tax season a little less stressful.
Residents can also take advantage of the IRS’s numerous online tools and resources, such as the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA), to get answers to their tax questions and determine their filing status. The IRS2Go mobile app is another valuable resource, allowing users to check their refund status, make payments and find free tax preparation services right from their smartphones. Available for both iOS and Android devices, this app brings the IRS’s services directly to your fingertips.
Additionally, the IRS offers voicebot services for those calling in for refund information and online chatbots for various functions, making it easier than ever to get the help you need without the long wait times. These tools not only enhance the tax filing experience but also provide peace of mind by ensuring that residents can find the information they need quickly and securely.
Secure printing that protects resident privacy
Tax forms are identity theft goldmines. Social security numbers, bank account details, employer info — it’s all there, waiting to be exploited if it falls into the wrong hands. Sensitive financial information, including documents received from banks, must be protected. Printing these documents at a public library or shipping store? Risky at best.
That’s why properties with PrintWithMe offer more than convenience. They offer peace of mind. Residents can print directly from their phones, laptops or tablets — anytime, anywhere. Documents are encrypted before they even hit the printer and are automatically deleted after printing. And with a unique release code, only they can collect their paperwork.
“Staff doesn’t have to be that source for residents to print items out,” says Emily Nouzies, Community Manager at RangeWater Real Estate. “We get very busy handling other requests, and this is just a good way for residents to be able to do it on their own and at their convenience.”
Hands-free and hassle-free printing means minimal staff involvement while delivering maximum resident satisfaction. And with 99%+ uptime and live support seven days a week, your team can focus on other priorities while residents enjoy reliable service. Face it, there’s never been a better time to break up with unreliable printing services.
Dedicated workspaces that actually help residents focus
Preparing taxes isn’t something you want to tackle with roommates blaring the TV or the kids asking what’s for dinner. One wrong digit or missed form can mean weeks of delays — or worse, an audit. Meeting the filing deadline is crucial, and a dedicated workspace can help ensure timely and accurate preparation.
This is where your community’s business center or coworking space can save the day.
Ensure your space offers plenty of power outlets for laptops and other electronic devices, lighting that won’t strain eyes during document review, comfortable (and ergonomic) seating, and, most importantly, fast, reliable Wi-Fi that keeps residents connected to tax prep platforms and IRS portals.
When every number matters and focus is crucial, your community’s dedicated workspaces can deliver what home offices and coffee shops don’t — a professional environment designed for serious work.
Coffee amenity to provide peak brainpower
When you’re neck deep in tax forms, caffeine isn’t optional. But heading to the nearest coffee shop for a brain boost? That’s time (and money) better spent elsewhere. Staying alert during tax season is crucial, especially when certain refunds are processed.
With SipWithMe, residents get barista-quality drinks in under 60 seconds — without leaving the building. Whether they’re craving a latte or a simple cup of joe, they can fuel up without the hassle (or the markup).
In a survey of over 2,300 multifamily residents, coffee ranked second only to fitness centers as the most-valued amenity. In that same survey, nearly half (49%) of residents reported that the coffee machine was their most-used technology-enabled amenity, far outpacing package lockers and entertainment options. And when your residents save 15+ minutes per coffee break and at least $20 a month compared to trips to the coffee shop, they notice.
“The residents are much happier, the staff is much happier,” said Harlen Fredenberg, General Manager at Asset Living. “WithMe amenities are smooth and save a lot of money. It’s been a win all around.”
No lines. No overpriced drinks. Just premium coffee when residents need it. It almost makes tax season a pleasant experience.
Tax season (and every other season) made easier
Tax time stress is real. But your community can help residents take it in stride with the right combination of secure printing, smart workspaces and great coffee — all conveniently on-site. Best of all? These same amenities enhance the resident experience throughout the entire year. Let’s chat about how PrintWithMe and SipWithMe can elevate your property’s amenity experience — not just for tax season, but for the long haul.
