It’s that time again – tax time! When all employed people eagerly anticipate the windfall heading their way, and all self-employed people reluctantly cough up a giant chunk of their earnings to Uncle Sam. However, since death and taxes are both unavoidable, it would make sense to use this opportunity (tax time, not death!) to do a little good in your community.
Not sure what we mean? It’s easy! There is a little checkoff box on the Michigan State Income Tax return form that allows state residents to donate to the prevention of child abuse. The donations are given to the The Children’s Trust Fund, which is a non-profit within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
According to their website, The Children’s Trust Fund “serves as a voice for Michigan’s children and families and promotes their health, safety, and welfare by funding effective local programs and services that prevent child abuse and neglect.”
How much do you have to give? There is no fixed amount – it’s your decision to make, although there are boxes for 5 and 10 dollar donations. Amounts that small may not seem like much, but when hundreds of people all donate a small quantity, it makes a huge difference.
This is a great opportunity to pay into our future!
According to Michael Foley, who serves as director of the Children’s Trust Fund, “The Children’s Trust Fund relies on the generosity of donors to help fund important programs in local communities. We hope that Michiganders who are filing their state income taxes will consider supporting efforts to protect our most valuable resources – our children.”
Can’t find the checkoff box on your tax paperwork (we get it – taxes can be really confusing!) Don’t worry, it’s on the Voluntary Contribution Schedule Form 4642. If you haven’t filed your taxes yet and are looking to get started, or are inspired by this opportunity to make a difference for Michigan’s children, check out this page for downloadable Michigan income tax forms.
We understand that our readers may be a little confused by this post, after all, we are child abuse defense attorneys and we frequently battle the MDHHS in the form of CPS. Yes, you’r right. We believe very strongly in parent rights and in protecting people from false allegations. However, we are also parents. So we understand the importance of protecting children, and we believe wholeheartedly that they are our future.
If you have a little cash to spare this tax season, we encourage you to donate a few dollars to the future of our beautiful state. However, if you or someone you love have been accused of abusing or neglecting a child, please contact us immediately at 800-576-6035. An attorney is standing by to advise you on your case, and ensure that you get the best legal representation possible.