Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.1.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # CASH Campaign of Maryland Creating Assets, Savings and Hope in Maryland ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://cashmd.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [The Real Cost of Back-to-School in Maryland (and How to Plan for It)](https://cashmd.org/uncategorized/the-real-cost-of-back-to-school-in-maryland-and-how-to-plan-for-it/) - If you've scrolled through back-to-school headlines this summer, you've probably noticed the numbers don't agree with each other. One survey says families are spending $557 per K-12 student. Another says $489. A third puts the number at $922. None of these researchers made a mistake — they're just measuring different things, for different families, in - [What Is Bank On Maryland — and Why Does It Matter for Your Community?](https://cashmd.org/uncategorized/what-is-bank-on-maryland-and-why-does-it-matter-for-your-community/) - If you've ever been turned away from a bank, hit with surprise overdraft fees, or felt like the whole system just wasn't built for you — you're not alone. And there's something in Maryland specifically designed to fix that. It's called Bank On Maryland, and it's changing how thousands of people access basic financial services. - [Scam Alert: How Bank Impersonation Scams Drain Accounts and What To Do If It Happens to You](https://cashmd.org/uncategorized/scam-alert-how-bank-impersonation-scams-drain-accounts-and-what-to-do-if-it-happens-to-you/) - Financial scams are becoming more sophisticated, more personal, and more expensive. According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, a 25% increase from the prior year. Imposter scams were one of the largest categories, with 845,806 reports and $2.95 billion in financial losses. One of the - [CASH Campaign of Maryland Launches New “Maryland Direct Cash Table”](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/cash-campaign-of-maryland-launches-new-maryland-direct-cash-table/) - At the CASH Campaign of Maryland, we believe Maryland families deserve both economic stability today and opportunities to build wealth for the future. That belief is at the heart of our newest initiative: the Maryland Direct Cash Table. This newly formed statewide table will bring together advocates, philanthropy, researchers, service providers, policy leaders, and community - [What to Do With Your Tax Refund Before It Disappears](https://cashmd.org/uncategorized/what-to-do-with-your-tax-refund-before-it-disappears/) - Wondering what to do with your tax refund? Learn smart ways to use your refund for bills, savings, debt payoff, and long-term financial stability. - [The Hidden Costs That Quietly Drain Your Money (and What to Do About It)](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/the-hidden-costs-that-quietly-drain-your-money-and-what-to-do-about-it/) - When people think about where their money goes, they usually focus on big expenses like rent, groceries, or childcare. What often gets overlooked are the smaller costs that don’t feel urgent or obvious in the moment, but quietly add up over time. These hidden costs can make it harder to save, plan ahead, or feel Learn how hidden costs like bank fees, subscriptions, and late charges quietly drain your money and what you can do to keep more of what you earn. - [First Time Filing? Your "Adulting" Cheat Sheet for Taxes](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/first-time-filing-your-adulting-cheat-sheet-for-taxes/) - Let’s be real: "Adulting" is mostly just Googling stuff and hoping for the best. You figure out how to set up your own Wi-Fi. You (eventually) remember to buy dish soap before you run out. But then, January rolls around, and you get an envelope in the mail labeled "IMPORTANT TAX DOCUMENT," and suddenly, the - [The Real Cost of Tax Software: Why Free Filing Matters More Than Ever](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/the-real-cost-of-tax-software-why-free-filing-matters-more-than-ever/) - If you’re a taxpayer in Maryland gearing up for the next filing season, here’s something worth knowing: the cost of “free” tax software may not be so free after all — and for low- and moderate-income filers, that cost can be a heavy burden. We believe every dollar you earn should go toward your goals, - [How to Bank Like a Boss (Even on a Budget)](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/how-to-bank-like-a-boss-even-on-a-budget/) - Learn how to bank like a boss, avoid fees, and confidently manage your money—even on a budget. Simple steps to bank safely and build financial stability. - [Behind the Scenes: CASH’s Administrative Experience With the Baltimore Young Families Success Fund](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/behind-the-scenes-cashs-administrative-experience-with-the-baltimore-young-families-success-fund/) - Navigating the planning, administrative, and advocacy role in the city’s guaranteed income pilot program Author: Nicole Rothstein What would happen if we trusted young parents living in poverty with money that they could spend however they saw fit for their families? This question inspired the Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Children and Family Success to launch - [Restoring Hope: Tiny Home Unlocks Big Opportunity for Generational Wealth](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/restoring-hope-tiny-home-unlocks-big-opportunity-for-generational-wealth/) - Baltimore guaranteed income program provides a pathway out of poverty and helps foster long-term financial security Author: Nicole Rothstein What would happen if we trusted young parents living in poverty with money that they could spend however they saw fit for their families? This question inspired the Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Children and Family - [Stepping Stones: A Journey Toward Confidence and Independence](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/stepping-stones-a-journey-toward-confidence-and-independence/) - Baltimore guaranteed income program opens the door to new opportunities and a chance for a better life for participants Author: Nicole Rothstein What would happen if we trusted young parents living in poverty with money that they could spend however they saw fit for their families? This question inspired the Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Children - [From Homeless to Hopeful: Laying the Foundation for a Better Life](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/from-homeless-to-hopeful-laying-the-foundation-for-a-better-life/) - Baltimore guaranteed income program participants thrive thanks to outreach services, financial assistance, and new connections Author: Nicole Rothstein What would happen if we trusted young parents living in poverty with money that they could spend however they saw fit for their families? This question inspired the Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Children and Family Success - [Celebrating 50 Years of Economic Advancement: The EITC and CTC's Legacy and the Road Ahead](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/celebrating-50-years-of-economic-advancement-the-eitc-and-ctcs-legacy-and-the-road-ahead/) - Author: Kyarah Mair & Tonaeya Moore Overview of Federal EITC and CTC: Impact and Enhancements During COVID-19 With the 50th anniversary of the Earned Income Tax Credit approaching, this is the perfect time to celebrate the credit as one of the largest anti-poverty programs America has seen and reevaluate its impact on not just families, ## Pages - [Home](https://cashmd.org/) - Creating Assets, Savings and Hope in Maryland Promoting the economic advancement of low-to-moderate income individuals and families in Baltimore and across Maryland. Individual & Family Resources Organization & Practitioner Resources Click to See Our Latest Blog & Newsletter Click here for current tax preparation services and resources. VITA Services Prepare & File Your Own Taxes - [Free Tax Preparation Resources](https://cashmd.org/free-tax-preparationresources/) - Free Tax Preparation Resources Free Tax Preparation UPDATE: Free tax preparation sites in the Baltimore metro area are FULL. Some appointments may become available if there are cancellations. To check for any remaining openings please check our sites online calendar by clicking HERE or call 410-234-8008 Monday – Friday 9 am – 2 pm. You MUST have all of your - [Tax Partners Around Maryland](https://cashmd.org/tax-partners/) - Tax Partners Around Maryland CASH VITA Coalition sites are open throughout the summer to file back taxes! The following partners are offering back tax appointments this year:Community Tax Aid (DC)Call 202-830-1480 Human Services Program of Carroll County (Westminster, MD)Call 410-386-6641 Montgomery County Community Action Agency (Rockville, MD)Visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/CASHBACK or call 240-777-1123 Prince George’s Community College (Largo, MD)Visit www.pgcc.edu/go/tax Shore Up, Inc. - [VITA Partner Resources](https://cashmd.org/volunteer-resources/vita-partner-resources/) - IRS Forms New Site Resources Fundraising Resources Volunteer Resources FSA Resources IRS Forms New Site Resources Fundraising Resources Volunteer Resources FSA Resources VITA Partner Resources IRS Forms Form Name Purpose Due Date Form 13715 - Volunteer Site Information Sheet Details on site location, contact information, hours, services offered, site coordinator, etc. For each SIDN, submit - [Staff](https://cashmd.org/staff/) - Meet Our Staff Rob Bader, JD, EADirector of Tax Operations About Rob Bader, JD, EA Rob is the Director of Tax Operations for the CASH Campaign of Maryland. He was introduced to free tax preparation services while managing a partner program of the Baltimore CASH Campaign. After working with vulnerable individuals in many capacities, he - [Fellowships & Careers](https://cashmd.org/fellowships-careers/) - Fellowships & Careers Finance Director: The Finance Director is responsible for the accuracy and integrity of the organization’s finances and, in partnership with the CEO and COO, the overall financial health of CASH Campaign. This position works closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, and staff to maintain sound fiscal management, ensure regulatory compliance, and align - [Tax Partnerships](https://cashmd.org/tax-partnerships/) - CASH Coalition:Tax Partnerships Why Taxes? Free tax preparation sites make a huge impact in low- and moderate-income communities. That’s why CASH leads a network of direct service providers and universities that offer free tax preparation across the state of Maryland.Free tax prep services enhance the capacity of organizations and their staff to improve the financial stability and wellbeing - [Find a Financial Coach or Planner](https://cashmd.org/financial-coaching/) - Find a Financial Coach or Planner Financial Coaching and Planning The CASH Campaign of Maryland offers two great programs to help you reach your financial goals. Through generous support from the Foundation for Financial Planning and other partners, these high-quality programs are available at no cost to Marylanders.Financial Coaching offers ongoing, unlimited, one-on-one support to reach - [Volunteer With Us](https://cashmd.org/volunteer-with-us/) - Volunteer With Us New Volunteers Help Marylanders file their taxes through the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program! We will begin training in January 2027. If you are interested, please complete this form and we will reach out to you when registration opens. Current Volunteers: Quick Links Already trained or actively volunteering? Jump right in: Access the Volunteer Resource - [Board of Directors](https://cashmd.org/board-of-directors/) - Board of Directors Board Member Aravind Boddupalli Senior Research Associate, Tax and Income Supports​ DivisionUrban-Brookings Tax Policy Center Board Member Michelle Coates Treasurer Michael Harris COOGateway Homes Board Member Peter Haukebo PartnerFrost Law Firm Board Chairperson Mary Jean Herron ConsultantWilmax Advisory LLC Secretary Tomi Hiers Vice President, Center for Civic Sites and Community ChangeAnnie E. - [Tax Site Resources](https://cashmd.org/volunteer-resources/tax-site-resources/) - Back Taxes Support Required IRS Publications Site Manager Tools Intake Documents Client Handouts Over-the-Phone Interpretation Tax Law Resources Client Help Mailing Paper Returns Out of Scope Tax Issues Back Taxes Support Required IRS Publications Site Manager Tools Intake Documents Client Handouts Over-the-Phone Interpretation Tax Law Resources Client Help Mailing Paper Returns Out of Scope Tax - [Financial Education Summit](https://cashmd.org/financial-education-summit/) - Financial Education Summit The 10th annual Financial Education Summit was held on April 28 & 29 2026. Over 130 people attended to learn, share and network. The theme this year was: “The Next Ten: Building Smarter Financial Communities”. Recordings of this event are now available below. CASH looks forward to the next 10 years of supporting - [Training Materials](https://cashmd.org/volunteer-resources/training-materials/) - CASH Trainings Practice Scenarios Taking the IRS Certification Tests Site Manager Training IRS Training Training from Other VITA Programs CASH Trainings Practice Scenarios Taking the IRS Certification Tests Site Manager Training IRS Training Training from Other VITA Programs Training Materials Welcome! Thank you for volunteering, and we look forward to seeing you at training. Find - [Legislative Action](https://cashmd.org/advocacy-and-policy/) - Legislative Action 2026 Legislative Wrap-Up The CASH Campaign of Maryland advocates for policies on the local, state, and federal level that protect and grow the financial security of Maryland’s low-to-moderate income residents. 2026 Legislative Wrap-Up Sign Up for Advocacy Updates! Join our Advocacy Newsletter to receive updates about Maryland’s legislative session and CASH’s initiatives. Click - [Tools to Prepare and File Your Own Taxes](https://cashmd.org/prepare-your-own-taxes/) - Tools to Prepare & File Your Own Taxes File your own taxes for free with assistance from the CASH Campaign of Maryland via Facilitated Self-Assistance! CASH’s Facilitated Self-Assistance resources include: A link to create a free TaxSlayer account so you can file your federal and state tax returns for free Resources to help you navigate - [Tax Time Financial Capability](https://cashmd.org/volunteer-resources/tax-time-financial-capability/) - Referral Program Community Resource Navigator Training Resources for Learners Take Action! Talking About Savings The Racial Wealth Gap CASH Statement Referral Program Community Resource Navigator Training Resources for Learners Take Action! Talking About Savings The Racial Wealth Gap CASH Statement Tax Time Financial Capability Tax Time FinCaps Referral Program Tax Time FinCaps Referral Program Overview - [Donate](https://cashmd.org/donate/) - Donate You can help Marylanders achieve their financial goals and reach financial security! With your contribution, The CASH Campaign of Maryland will continue to create assets, savings and hope for low-income Marylanders.Check out our wishlist for items we need to support our mission. Donate Today! View Our Wishlist Donation Policy This document outlines CASH’s values - [Our Impact at a Glance](https://cashmd.org/our-impact-at-a-glance/) - Our Impact at a Glance 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 Click here to see our 2018 annual report. 2017 - [Financial Education and Capability Awards](https://cashmd.org/financial-education-capability-awards/) - Maryland Financial Education and Capability Awards Congratulations 2026 Maryland Financial Education and Capability Award Winners Community Champion Award: Lacy Allen, Financial Health and Digital Engagement Manager of Interfaith Housing AllianceRecognized for demonstrating outstanding leadership managing the Credit Cafe Workshop since 2017, equipping participants with both foundational credit knowledge and individualized guidance through virtual one-on-one credit report - [Money Power Day 2025](https://cashmd.org/money-power-day/) - Money Power Day: March 14, 2026 Don’t Miss the Next Money Power Day Location: Poly-Western High School 4600 Falls Rd.Baltimore, MD 21209 Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors: Financial Institution Champion Community Champion View Flyer Workshop Schedule Click Here Our Platinum Sponsors **NEW** Do-It-Yourself Tax Preparation Workshop! Learn a skill that will last a lifetime! CASH - [Reports and Publications](https://cashmd.org/reports-and-pubs/) - Reports and Publications Stronger Starts: A Toolkit for Embedding Financial Wellness in Early Intervention Programs This toolkit is designed for early intervention leaders who are considering how to integrate financial wellness support into family-facing programs. Whether you’re an agency director, program lead, funder, or implementation partner, this guide offers practical, detailed insights to support replication - [Volunteer Resources Home](https://cashmd.org/volunteer-resources/) - Tax Volunteer & Partner Resources CASH Tax Program Flyer - Statewide CASH Tax Program Flyer - Baltimore Statewide Flyer - En Español Baltimore Flyer - En Español Getting Ready to Volunteer Volunteer Training Registration Learn More Webinar: Intro to Tax Law Learn More Link and Learn Certification Site Learn More At the Tax Site TaxSlayer - [Maryland Community Fellows](https://cashmd.org/volunteer-resources/maryland-community-fellows/) - Maryland Community Fellows Welcome to the MCF Program! This page contains resources you’ll use throughout your Fellowship. If you have questions about the Maryland Community Fellows Program, reach out to Siddiq (siddiq@cashmd.org). MCFP Documents Maryland Community Fellows Program Handbook for Students & Supervisors (coming soon)Fellows Invoice TemplateMonthly Evaluation FormFellows Slack Page Tax Resources Pub. 4012: - [Open a Bank Account](https://cashmd.org/open-a-bank-account/) - Open a Bank Account Bank On Maryland CASH launched Bank On Maryland to expand access to safe financial products and ensure that more financial institutions in Maryland offer accounts that meet the Bank On National Account Standards. Across the country, at least three million people have opened bank accounts certified as meeting these standards. Through Bank - [Media Inquiries/Press Releases](https://cashmd.org/media-inquiries/) - Media Inquiries/Press Releases Port Worker Assistance Fund Press Release Click here to read our 2024 Tax Time Press Release. For media inquiries please contact: Mara Kearney | Senior Account ManagerAbel Communications(775) 846-7714mara@abelcommunications.comwww.abelcommunications.com - [Voices & Views](https://cashmd.org/voices-views/) - Voices & Views The Real Cost of Back-to-School in Maryland (and How to Plan for It) August 12, 2026 Read More → What Is Bank On Maryland — and Why Does It Matter for Your Community? July 20, 2026 Read More → Scam Alert: How Bank Impersonation Scams Drain Accounts and What To Do If - [Guaranteed Income (GI)](https://cashmd.org/guaranteed-income/) - Guaranteed Income (GI) Baltimore Young Family Success Fund In 2021, the CASH Campaign of Maryland was selected to be the nonprofit administrator for Baltimore City’s guaranteed income program: The Baltimore Young Family Success Fund (BYFSF). 200 participants received $1,000 of unrestricted funds monthly for 24 months. The first payment was in August 2022 and the - [Furloughed Worker Resources](https://cashmd.org/furloughed-worker-resources/) - Resources for Furloughed Workers & Others Affected by the Government Shutdown Are you a Marylander who has recently lost your job as a federal employee or contractor, or who is affected by the federal government shutdown? This page provides information from the State of Maryland and Baltimore City on resources like unemployment insurance benefits, career - [Tools to Prepare and File Your Own Taxes](https://cashmd.org/prepare-your-own-taxes-2/) - Tools to Prepare & File Your Own Taxes Filing, Credits & Refund Resources NEW, Direct FileStarting in 2025 Marylanders may be eligible to file directly with the IRS for FREE. Learn More Get Your RefundFree Tax Help from IRS-Certified Volunteers done virtually! You need a smart phone, ID and tax documents. Learn More Prepare - [Common Cents Conference](https://cashmd.org/common-cents-conference/) - Common Cents Conference About the Conference Thank You For Attending the Common Cents Conference View Conference Agenda HERE__________________Financial Futures: Empowering Communities to ThriveThe Common Cents Conference was held on June 4-5, 2025. The event featured dynamic and enriching presenters and brought together leaders and experts in the field to discuss innovative strategies and solutions for supporting - [Find a Local Education Coalition](https://cashmd.org/find-a-local-education-coalition/) - Find a Local Coalition Partner Financial Capability Coalitions Since 2009, the CASH Campaign has helped to create coalitions to bring together different local organizations under one common goal – advancing the financial well-being of Maryland residents.Each coalition—comprised of nonprofits, financial institutions, associations, and community volunteers—provides their immediate community with adequate resources to not only manage, - [Financial Education and Capability Commission](https://cashmd.org/financial-capability-commission/) - Maryland Financial Education and Capability Commission The Commission was passed through legislation in the Maryland General Assembly during the 2012 regular session and signed by the Governor on May 22, 2012. The Commission went into effect on October 1, 2012 and nominations were approved in December 2012. The text of the law can be found here. The - [Benefits Screening](https://cashmd.org/benefits-screening/) - Benefits Screening & Resources Other Resources Have trouble getting by each month? You may quality to receive local, state or federal benefits. The CASH Campaign of Maryland checks your eligibility for public benefits and connects you to local resources. With the help of the Single Stop screening tool, CASH staff can determine your eligibility for 20+ - [Supporters](https://cashmd.org/supporters/) - Supporters Aaron and Lillie Straus Foundation Abell Foundation Annie E. Casey Foundation Baltimore City Office of Recovery Programs Baltimore Civic Fund Bank of America Foundation Capital One Bank Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund Comptroller of Maryland Clayton Baker Trust David & Barbara B. Hirschhorn Foundation Tax Equity Funders Network Economic Security Project France-Merrick Foundation Frank - [History & Mission](https://cashmd.org/mission-history/) - History & Mission About us The CASH Campaign of Maryland (Creating Assets, Savings and Hope) promotes economic advancement for low-to-moderate income individuals and families in Baltimore and across Maryland. Enjoy this short video to learn more about us. CASH accomplishes its mission through operating a portfolio of direct service programs, building organizational and field capacity, - [Training for Organizations](https://cashmd.org/training-for-organizations/) - Training for Organizations The CASH Campaign of Maryland wants human service practitioners to have the knowledge and skills necessary to assist clients in moving towards financial stability. We have a depth of experience providing technical assistance to a range of organizations and programs who serve low-income consumers as well as designing financial education curricula. These - [Financial Education Classes](https://cashmd.org/financial-education-classes/) - Financial Education Classes Individuals Program Participants Staff Maryland CASH Academy Are you interested in taking a free financial education class? The CASH Campaign is committed to helping you get the credible, quality financial education you need to learn how to meet your financial goals – NO product selling allowed! In partnership with nonprofits, banks, credit unions, - [Financial Social Work Initiative](https://cashmd.org/advancing-the-field-fswi/) - Financial Social Work Initiative The CASH Campaign serves on The University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Social Work Financial Social Work Initiative (FSWI) Steering Committee. CASH also participates in research that helps to build the evidence around how practitioners and clients can best address financial issues.The FSW Certificate Program is offered periodically and information is posted online - [Contact Us](https://cashmd.org/contact-us/) - Contact Us Email For general questions or more information, please email info@cashmd.org and someone will get in touch with you shortly. Name Email Message Send Volunteer Sign-Up Come volunteer with us! We have a variety of volunteer roles available. Check them out by clicking here or contact info@cashmd.org for more information on how to get involved. E-Newsletters - [Who We Serve](https://cashmd.org/who-we-serve/) - Who We Serve Individuals and Families Free Tax Preparation – We are now providing free tax preparation. Click here to find out if you qualify and schedule an appointment.Financial Education – CASH offers free financial education classes statewide covering a variety of topics. Register for a class near you or online by going to the ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://cashmd.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Voices & Views](https://cashmd.org/category/voices-views/)