Tax Assistance, CTRail expansion and scam alert

January 22, 2025
 
I encourage you to get your taxes filed for FREE this year!  Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or VITA is a volunteer-supported program, that helps people making up to $68,000 annually file federal and state income tax preparation for FREE.

                                   Click here to find a location near you


 
Last year, taxpayers received $28 million in refunds and credits due to the amazing group of volunteers.

Click here for more information on how to help Become a VITA volunteer today! 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact Taniqua Huguley at THuguley@unitedwayinc.org or 860-420-2141.


 
 
CTrail Expansion
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is awarding Connecticut approximately $11.6 million from former President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to increase and extend service along the CTrail Hartford Line.  The money will further expand rail services and improve customer service for riders along the corridor. The federal grant will be matched by approximately $13.4 million in state funds from the Connecticut Department of Transportation.
 
Since its inception in 2018, the CTrail Hartford Line has grown significantly, spurring economic development and investments throughout the corridor.
In total, the CTrail Hartford Line Expanded Enhancement Project will:
  •    Add one weekday round trip from New Haven to Hartford.
  •    Extend the weekend 6456, 6457, 6458, and 6459 trains to Windsor Locks station.
  •    Continue previous 2020 funding for the addition of two weekdays trains between New Haven and Springfield.
  •    Enhance connectivity of the existing rail service along the Northeast Corridor.

By 2030, the CTrail Hartford Line Expanded Enhancement Project is projected to increase ridership by about 90,000, saving drivers more than 100 million miles traveled, over 3.5 million gallons of fuel annually, and over 25,000 metric tons of reduced carbon emissions per year.

For more information on the Hartford Line, visit HartfordLine.com.
 
 
Paid Sick Leave Update
CT Paid Leave claims continue to be filed in every area of the state. The Authority's Usage Map shows the number of cumulative claims per town as of November 30, 2024. 

Click here to view the map and learn how many paid leave claims have been filed in your district as well as the application rates on a per 10,000 person basis. 
 
               
       Know the Difference: CT Paid Leave and Paid Sick Leave

Reminder: CT Paid Leave and paid sick leave are similar but different policies that provide support to workers. Workers utilize CT Paid Leave to recover from or care for a loved one with a serious health condition, such as cancer treatment or surgery.  To assist in navigating the differences, see the resource below or linked here.
 
 
Warning: Unpaid Toll Scam Alert
              
I want to make sure all of you stay safe and informed! A new scam is circulating where fraudsters are sending text messages claiming you have an unpaid toll and asking for payment. Please DO NOT click any links or provide any personal information.

Here are some tips from the FBI:
  • If you receive one of these messages, file a complaint with the IC3, www.ic3.gov. Include where the number of the originating text came from, and the website from which the number was generated.
  • Delete any scam texts received.
  • If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charges.
  • Always verify any toll-related charges directly through official state websites or customer service.

Stay vigilant and share this message with your friends and family to help protect our community!