Knowing what financial organizations, tax programs, and planning tools are available in Oregon is an important first step in building financial resilience over time. These options change often, and many people miss out simply because they do not know what exists or where to start.
While people may be familiar with contacting 211 for help with housing or food, fewer realize that 211 is also the number to call to find free and low-cost financial and tax-related resources. 211 is a free public service, available to all Oregonians. 211 helps people connect to financial resources that support a wide range of situations, not just those who qualify for income-based assistance. This includes people who are:
- Trying to get more organized financially and need a place to start
- Doing okay on paper but feeling financially stretched in daily life
- Planning for a major life change like marriage, a new baby, or retirement
- Navigating short-term financial challenges
- Planning for college, trade school or starting a business
- Feeling overwhelmed or confused about next steps
What is Financial Wellness at 211info?
211info partners with the Oregon Treasury Savings Network and the Oregon College Savings Plan to make it easier for Oregonians to find reliable financial resources in one place, on the 211 Financial Wellness webpage.
Financial wellness includes connections to resources for:
- Budgeting and financial education
- Debt management and credit counseling
- Banking and savings options
- Tax preparation help and tax credits
- Employment and resume support
- Foreclosure prevention and bankruptcy assistance
- Fraud and identity theft prevention
- Financial aid and small business development
- Disability and caregiver-related programs
Tax Preparation Assistance & Tax Credits
Through 211info, people can get information on tax preparation resources that help maximize refunds and make sure available tax credits are not missed. 211info helps people find:
- Free, in-person tax preparation by IRS-certified volunteers
- Virtual tax help options, including support for those in rural areas or with limited internet access
- Reputable, no-cost filing options
- Alternatives if online filing is not a good fit
More sites and appointments often become available as tax season continues, so if you’re not finding help in your area right away, check back or call again.
Visit 211info.org/financial-wellness to search for tax prep near you. If you need assistance, call 211.
Tax credits are one of the most common ways people miss out on money they are eligible to receive. Credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC) can reduce the amount of tax owed and may result in a larger refund. Free tax preparation sites can help identify which credits apply to individual situations. Oregon also offers additional credits that many people are not aware of, including:
- The Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit, which helps families with qualifying child care expenses
- Credits specific to foster and resource parents
How 211info Helps
211info is a statewide, Oregon-based contact center. They do not provide direct financial services; they help people understand their options and connect them with trusted resources. When you contact 211info, you speak with a real person who listens to your situation and helps find the best resources for you.
Planning ahead, asking questions, and getting support are smart steps to get started on financial wellness, and 211info services are free, confidential, and available to everyone.