The Community Tax Law Project

The Community Tax Law Project CTLP ensures the fairness and integrity of the tax system by providing free legal representation

CTLP provides free legal help to Virginia’s low wage families and individuals experiencing economic harm because of a tax problem. Our services directly strengthen the financial stability of working families and ensure that all Virginians receive fair and equal treatment in tax disputes. CTLP also operates a program providing free start-up legal services to Richmond area nonprofit organizations.

Every year, the IRS shares its “Dirty Dozen Tax Scams” — a list of the most common schemes taxpayers may encounter, espe...
03/19/2026

Every year, the IRS shares its “Dirty Dozen Tax Scams” — a list of the most common schemes taxpayers may encounter, especially during tax season.

⚠️ Key IRS Reminders
• The IRS does not contact you first by text, email, or social media.
• They also do not threaten arrest or demand immediate payment.
• Today’s scams are becoming more sophisticated, including the use of AI-generated voices.

🛡️ Simple Ways to Protect Yourself
• Be cautious with unexpected messages—avoid clicking unknown links
• Always verify information directly at IRS.gov
• Never share your SSN or financial details over phone or email
• Consider using an IP PIN for added protection

Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your community. Take a moment to review this year’s list and stay one step ahead—click the link below to learn more.

IR-2026-30, March 5, 2026 — The Internal Revenue Service today announced its annual Dirty Dozen list of tax scams for 2026 that threaten the tax and financial information of taxpayers, businesses, and tax professionals.

We’re excited to share that our organization was highlighted in the Virginia Department of Social Services, Office of Ne...
03/17/2026

We’re excited to share that our organization was highlighted in the Virginia Department of Social Services, Office of New Americans – Refugee and Immigrant Services, March Newsletter! 🎉

This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and partners in serving immigrant and refugee communities. We’re proud to be part of this important work and grateful for the continued collaboration.

Did you know that a tax refund offset can result in the government taking part—or even all—of your federal or state tax ...
02/25/2026

Did you know that a tax refund offset can result in the government taking part—or even all—of your federal or state tax refund to cover outstanding debts?

While this can be stressful and unexpected, there are proactive steps you can take to prevent an offset or lessen its impact—especially if you’re facing financial hardship.

Read the article below to learn how to protect your refund and understand your rights.

If you were counting on your tax refund to pay rent, cover groceries, or catch up on bills, it can be devastating to learn that your refund has been reduced, or taken entirely to pay an old debt.

"Each year, millions of working taxpayers miss out on valuable tax credits Congress created to support work, offset payr...
01/23/2026

"Each year, millions of working taxpayers miss out on valuable tax credits Congress created to support work, offset payroll taxes, reduce poverty, and strengthen families. These credits go unclaimed not because taxpayers are at fault, but because the rules are complex, awareness is limited, and access to reliable help varies."

To read the National Taxpayer Advocate blog about the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), please click on the link:

That’s why, for the 20th year in a row, the TAS and the IRS are participating in EITC Awareness Day on January 23. The day is intended to increase understanding of refundable credits and help ensure eligible taxpayers are aware of their ability to claim benefits provided under current law.

Did your family earn $68,675 or less in 2025? You could be eligible to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit, a refundable ...
01/23/2026

Did your family earn $68,675 or less in 2025? You could be eligible to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit, a refundable credit that's worth up to $8,046. Learn more about : IRS.gov/eitc

Official announcement from the IRS about the start of the 2026 U.S. tax filing season. The IRS also highlights that taxp...
01/12/2026

Official announcement from the IRS about the start of the 2026 U.S. tax filing season. The IRS also highlights that taxpayers can start preparing now—gathering W-2s, 1099s, and other documents—even before the season officially opens, and online tools are available on IRS.gov to help with planning and filing.

IR-2026-02, Jan. 8, 2026 — The Internal Revenue Service announced Monday, January 26, 2026, as the opening of the nation’s 2026 filing season. This year, several new tax law provisions of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill become effective, which could impact federal taxes, credits and deductions.

Calling all Federal employees and retirees! Planning on giving through the CFC this Giving Tuesday? Visit GiveCFC.org an...
12/02/2025

Calling all Federal employees and retirees! Planning on giving through the CFC this Giving Tuesday? Visit GiveCFC.org and click the Donate button to get started. And, don't forget to use our CFC code #67736 for your donation!

During Pro Bono Volunteer Week, we express our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible pro bono volunteers. Your dedicatio...
10/20/2025

During Pro Bono Volunteer Week, we express our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible pro bono volunteers. Your dedication and generosity make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

The application periods for the ABA Tax Section Fellowships are now open!   The Fellowships provide an important way to ...
10/06/2025

The application periods for the ABA Tax Section Fellowships are now open! The Fellowships provide an important way to bring new lawyers into the practice of tax law, particularly public interest tax work. CTLP was lucky to host a Christine A. Brunswick Fellow, Terri Morris, from 2020-2022. It is a wonderful opportunity and experience for the fellow and the host organization alike.

The International Rescue Committee is celebrating ten years! 🎉 Don’t miss Stories of Hope—a night of stories from refuge...
09/29/2025

The International Rescue Committee is celebrating ten years! 🎉 Don’t miss Stories of Hope—a night of stories from refugees, immigrants, and survivors of trafficking who inspire us all. For more information and tickets, visit www.tinyurl.com/IRCRVA10

05/29/2025

We’re in the spotlight! 🌟

The Community Tax Law Project was featured in Cancer Link’s June newsletter! Learn how we're supporting cancer patients—and the broader community—by helping them tackle tough tax issues when they need it most.

👉 Check it out by clicking on the link below:

Address

P. O. Box 11322
Richmond, VA
23230

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