National SPEC Director Visits SECU to Tout Benefits of Partnership for North Carolinians!

RALEIGH, N.C., May 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael Beebe, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Director of Stakeholder Partnerships, Education and Communication (SPEC) paid a congratulatory visit earlier this month to State Employees' Credit Union (SECU), sharing his appreciation for SECU's success in helping so many North Carolina taxpayers through the IRS free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.  The Credit Union became a VITA partner in 2007, serving as program sites in all SECU branch locations statewide.   SECU's program results have been remarkable each year and 2011 was no exception, as SECU helped nearly 48,000 members claim approximately $74 million in refunds while saving them over $7 million in tax preparation fees!  With its strong focus on financial education and tax credit awareness, SECU is the largest IRS partner in the southern region with VITA totals ranking well above the national average.

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"The support that credit unions provide to the VITA program clearly is a benefit to educating taxpayers in our communities," said Beebe.  "We are happy to see taxpayers taking advantage of these volunteer services and appreciate the support of our credit union partners."

Tenesha Carter, SECU's SVP of Tax Preparation Services comments, "Partnering with the IRS for VITA provides SECU the opportunity to offer a no-cost tax preparation option to qualifying members in all 237 branch locations.  As a not-for-profit member-owned financial cooperative, the Credit Union has always been committed to providing low or no-cost services that are beneficial to members, and the VITA program aligns perfectly with that commitment.  With the continuing economic climate and high unemployment rate in North Carolina, there has also never been a better time to help put money back in the pockets of those who need it most.  SECU staff members are thrilled to offer another service that allows us to do just that!"  

About SECU

SECU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members. SECU has been providing the employees of the State of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for over 70 years. Currently serving more than 1.6 million members, SECU provides services through 237 branch offices, nearly 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Contact Centers and a website, www.ncsecu.org.

CONTACT:
Leigh Brady, Senior Vice President
Education Services, SECU
919-807-8344, fax: 919-807-8348
E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE State Employees' Credit Union