January 2026 Newsletter - Community Housing Associates

NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITIES

January is the perfect time to access new resources and renew important documents. Tax season, benefit renewals, and fresh programs are all starting now. Take action early to maximize your opportunities in 2026.

January Action Items

Renew Benefits and Documents

SNAP, Medical Assistance, and other benefits may need renewal in January. Check renewal dates and gather documents early. Your case manager can help with recertification paperwork.

Prepare for Tax Season

Free tax preparation starts late January. Gather W-2s, 1099s, Social Security statements, and rent receipts. File early to get your refund faster and access Earned Income Tax Credit.

Schedule Health Appointments

Start the year healthy. Schedule annual check-ups, dental cleanings, and medication refills. Many insurance benefits reset January 1st, making it the best time for preventive care.

Still Cold - Stay Safe!

Winter Safety Reminders:

Keep heat on - minimum 68 degrees F recommended

Report heating problems immediately

OHEP assistance still available through March

Call 211 for warming centers during cold snaps

Your January Action Plan

STEP 1: Check All Benefit Renewal Dates

Many benefits require annual recertification. Check renewal notices for SNAP, Medical Assistance, Social Security, and disability benefits. Missing a deadline can cause interruption in benefits. Contact your case manager if you received any renewal notices.

STEP 2: Gather Tax Documents for Free Prep

Free tax preparation sites open late January. Collect all income documents (W-2s, 1099s, SSI/SSDI statements), rent receipts, and medical expenses. You may qualify for Earned Income Tax Credit worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.

STEP 3: Schedule Healthcare Appointments

New insurance year means renewed benefits. Schedule preventive care appointments now before calendars fill up. This includes annual physicals, dental cleanings, vision exams, and medication management appointments.

VITA and Tax Assistance Programs

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax preparation for individuals and families earning $64,000 or less. IRS-certified volunteers will prepare your taxes, help you claim all eligible credits, and file electronically for faster refunds. Sites typically open late January through April 15th.

What to Bring to Tax Prep

Photo ID and Social Security cards for everyone
All W-2s, 1099s, and income statements
Prior year tax return (if available)
Proof of rent paid (lease, receipts)
Bank account info for direct deposit
Healthcare coverage form (1095-A, B, or C)

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The EITC can provide a refund of $600 to $7,430 depending on your income and family size. You must file a tax return to claim it, even if you do not owe taxes. VITA sites can help determine if you qualify and maximize your refund.

Free Tax Preparation and Financial Resources

Organization	Service	Phone	Details
CASH Campaign of MD	Free Tax Prep	(410) 234-8008	VITA sites across Baltimore. Opens late Jan. Call for appointments. Earn up to $7,430 EITC
Enoch Pratt Free Library	Tax Assistance	(410) 396-5430	Multiple library locations offer VITA. Check prattlibrary.org for schedules
Catholic Charities	Tax Prep	(667) 600-2000	Free tax help at multiple sites. IRS-certified preparers. Serve Baltimore residents
Maryland CASH	Financial Coaching	(410) 234-8008	Free one-on-one financial counseling. Budget help, debt management, savings plans
Baltimore HELP	Benefit Assistance	(410) 234-8008	Help with SNAP, Medical Assistance, and benefit renewals. Walk-in hours available
Health Care Access MD	Insurance Enrollment	(410) 649-0532	Free help enrolling in medical insurance. Maryland Health Connection navigators
Social Security Admin	SS/SSI/SSDI	(800) 772-1213	Benefit questions, replacement cards, direct deposit changes. Call or visit ssa.gov
Maryland Legal Aid	Free Legal Help	(410) 539-5340	Housing, benefits, family law assistance. Income qualified. Multiple Baltimore offices
Chase Brexton Health	Medical Care	(410) 837-2050	Sliding scale medical, dental, behavioral health. All welcome regardless of insurance
Baltimore Crisis Response	Mental Health	(410) 433-5175	24/7 crisis support. New year stress is real. Help is available anytime
Job Opportunities Task Force	Employment Help	(410) 234-8008	Job training, placement, expungement help. Free programs for Baltimore residents

Important Benefit Renewal Information:

SNAP (Food Stamps): (800) 332-6347 - Recertification every 6-12 months. Check myDHR portal or renewal notice for dates

Medical Assistance: (855) 642-8572 - Annual renewal required. Do not miss deadline or coverage will end

Social Security/SSI: (800) 772-1213 - Report all income changes within 10 days. Annual review may be required

211 Maryland: Call 211 or visit 211md.org - 24/7 help with benefits, food, utilities, and more

Planning for Housing Stability in 2026

Starting the year organized helps maintain housing stability. Stay current on rent, utilities, and benefit renewals. Your tax refund can be used for security deposits, past-due bills, or emergency savings. Work with your case manager to create a financial plan that protects your housing.

How Your Case Manager Can Help This Month

Schedule tax preparation appointments
Gather documents for benefit renewals
Connect with healthcare providers
Create budget plans using tax refunds
Resolve any benefit or housing issues from 2025

JANUARY REMINDERS

Tax Season: Free VITA sites open late January - call now to schedule

Benefit Renewals: Check all renewal dates and respond quickly

Healthcare: Schedule preventive appointments now

Winter Help: OHEP assistance available through March 31st

Case Manager: Contact with any questions or needs

COMMUNITY HOUSING ASSOCIATES