March 2025 E-Newsletter

Filing your taxes using Direct File and WisTax is as easy as 1-2-3:

1. Check to see if you are eligible and register at directfile.irs.gov.

2. File your federal return.

3. File your Wisconsin return.

Direct File and WisTax: Simple, Secure, Free

Eligible Wisconsin taxpayers can use Direct File, a no-cost IRS program that offers safe and secure electronic filing via a mobile-friendly platform. Best of all, Direct File offers a seamless connection with WisTax, a free alternative for Wisconsin residents to file their state taxes. Direct File is quick, intuitive, and user-friendly. The verified information from your federal return is automatically imported to WisTax, eliminating the need to complete W-2s, 1099s, and additional forms twice. Not only does this save you time; it lowers the likelihood of errors, making it among the fastest refund options available. Instant confirmation ensures your return was received. If Direct File and/or WisTax is not an option for you, there are other free options, such as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs and the IRS Free File Alliance. To get help or find more information on Direct File, go to the IRS Direct File website. For WisTax, visit the Wisconsin Department of Revenue website.

If you want to know when your collection is for garbage, recycling or yard waste you can find out by entering your address on our interactive map at: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/4bc2313fa2e74c4683c6b1a3605ac77a/

Have We Visited Your Home?

By: Donna Flint, Community Risk Reduction Specialist, North Shore Fire/Rescue

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, roughly 3 out of every 5 fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms, or where alarms are not working properly.

Residents are encouraged to take some time to ensure that you and your family are knowledgeable about what to do in the event of an emergency in your home.

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
Carbon monoxide alarms should also be installed in a central location outside of each sleeping area and/or on every level of the home.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms once a month and replace batteries as needed.
Talk with all household members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

North Shore Fire/Rescue is proud to offer free home-safety visits. Fire Department personnel will conduct a courtesy assessment of your home, where they will aid in identifying potential safety hazards and recommend corrective solutions.

Some areas of focus during a home assessment include:

Location and testing of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. If alarms are not present, or do not work properly, NSFR will install up to three alarms at no charge.
Recommendations for safe cooking
How to react when fire strikes (escape planning)
Appliance safety

For more information or to schedule a FREE home safety visit call (414) 357-0113 ext. 1101 or visit our website, www.nsfire.org.