Family Tax Services
Best Tax Preparation Service ~ Refund Advances ~ EIC Earned Income Tax Credit
Family Tax Services ~ 2025 Tax Change Updates
2025 Maximum Credits by Dependents:
- No children: $649
- 1 child: $4,328
- 2 children: $7,152
- 3+ children: $8,046
Earned income under $61,555 (varies by filing status)
Investment income limit: $11,950 max
Valid Social Security Number required
Single $50,434 $57,310 $61,555
Married
Jointly
Up from $2,000 in 2024
- $2,200 per qualifying child
- Up to $1,700 refundable (can get money back even if you owe no taxes)
- Will be adjusted annually for inflation starting 2026
- PERMANENT change (not expiring)
- Starts at $200,000 (Single filers)
- Starts at $400,000 (Married Filing Jointly)
- Reduces by $50 per $1,000 above these limits
- Child must be under age 17
- Valid SSN required for child and parents claiming
- Child must be your dependent
- Live with child more than half the year
Don't wait months for your tax refund. Get cash quickly with an advance loan.
2025 Refund Advance Options:
- Loans from $250 to $7,500
- Some providers offer 0% APR (no interest)
- Same-day funding available
- Direct deposit or prepaid card options
⚠️ PATH Act Delay: EITC and Child Tax Credit refunds are held until February 17, 2025, then funded in waves Feb 19-20. A refund advance can help you get cash sooner.
Typical Loan Amounts:
- Fixed amounts: $250, $500, $1,000, $1,500
- Percentage-based: 25%, 50%, or 75% of expected refund
- Maximum: Up to $7,500
ℹ️ Repayment is Simple: Your loan is automatically repaid from your tax refund once it arrives. No additional effort needed!
The rules changed significantly after December 31, 2018.
For Divorce Agreements Finalized After 2018:
- Payer: Cannot deduct alimony payments
- Recipient: Does not report alimony as taxable income
- Both parties receive no tax benefit
Old Rules (Pre-2019): If your agreement was finalized before 2019, the old rules may still apply. Consult with us to determine your situation.
Key Distinction:
Alimony vs. "Unallocated Support":
- Pure Alimony: No tax deduction (post-2018)
- Unallocated Support: Mix of alimony + child support may be deductible
ℹ️ Get Professional Help: Alimony tax treatment is complex. We recommend consulting a tax professional if you're paying or receiving spousal support.
Child support has consistent tax treatment regardless of divorce date.
Basic Rules:
- Payer: Child sup
- port is NOT deductible
- Recipient: Child support is NOT taxable income
- These rules apply to all divorce agreements
What You CAN Deduct or Claim:
Even though child support itself isn't deductible, parents paying support can claim:
- Head of Household filing status (if eligible)
- Child Tax Credit (if custodial parent)
- Child Care Credit for dependent care expenses
- Educational expenses for dependent children
⚠️ Refund Offset: If you're behind on child support payments, the government can garnish your tax refund to pay arrears.
ℹ️ Dependent Exemption: Only one parent can claim the child as a dependent. Usually it's the custodial parent, but a non-custodial parent can claim the child if the custodial parent signs Form 8332.
The OBBB, enacted in July 2025, brought significant expansions to family tax benefits:
Key Provisions for 2025:
- Child Tax Credit: Increased to $2,200 (up from $2,000)
- Adoption Credit: Now partially refundable (up to $5,000)
- Standard Deduction: Additional $6,000 for age 65+ (2025-2028)
- Annual Inflation Adjustment: Credits indexed to inflation starting 2026
Child Tax Credit Phaseout (2025):
- $200,000 (Single filers)
- $400,000 (Married Filing Jointly)
- Thresholds remain the same for 2026
✨ Why This Matters: The increased CTC and permanent changes mean more families will benefit, and the benefits will grow with inflation over time.
If you claim EITC or Child Tax Credit and file early, your refund will be held as a fraud-prevention measure:
January 27 – February 14, 2025
- IRS accepts returns with EITC/CTC claims, but refunds are held (PATH Act rule)
February 17, 2025
- IRS lifts the PATH Act hold and updates website/app with refund status for most early filers
February 19–20, 2025
- IRS funds refunds in two batches; most direct deposits should arrive by February 28
After February 15, 2025
- File anytime and your refund processes normally without the PATH Act delay
Family Tax Services can help you explore your options!
EITC Eligibility Checklist:
- ☐ Earned income from employment or self-employment
- ☐ AGI below the limit for your filing status and number of children
- ☐ Investment income $11,950 or less
- ☐ Valid SSN for yourself and any claiming children
- ☐ Age 25–64 (if no children) or any age (if have children)
- ☐ U.S. citizen or resident alien for full year
Child Tax Credit Eligibility Checklist:
- ☐ Child is under age 17 at end of 2025
- ☐ Child has valid Social Security Number
- ☐ You have valid Social Security Number
- ☐ Child is your dependent
- ☐ Child lived with you more than half the year
- ☐ You claim the child as a dependent on your return
- ☐ Your AGI is below phaseout limits ($200K single, $400K MFJ)
Qualify for up to $7,000 on your refund amount Available in 24 hours, starting January 2, 2024
Receive your advance into your bank account
Valid ID required
Earned Income Tax Credit
A Refreshing Evolution Of
Tax Preparation Services
Let us reinvent your experience with our personalized tax guidance & strategy. Find out why we are rated the Best Tax Preparation Service in Gloucester and Camden Counties.
Click Here To Call
856-456-5551
Who We Are
Professional Tax Prepares with a Personal Touch!
Serving Gloucester and Camden Counties NJ, PA, DE and Beyond.
Located in Westville / Gloucester City NJ
The entire reason we created Family Tax Services was for Individuals, Families, and Businesses just like yours. Our job is to make your life easier, and we spend tremendous amounts of time finding insights to enhance your business & tax strategies. We will also sit down with you to learn about your specific challenges and where you need help- every single one of our services are custom-tailored to your specific needs.
If you’re looking for the Best Tax Preparation Service that’s truly invested in your success, please call us today at 856-456-5551 to learn how we can help.
A Step Above Traditional Tax Preparation
We know how difficult it is to keep up with ever-changing tax codes. You don’t have time to keep up with it all, much less create long-term strategies.
At Family Tax Services, we offer a wide range of Tax Preparation services to meet your exact needs. From audits, review of prior year filing, and tax advice, we build personal relationships based on decades of success with individuals, families, and businesses. Check out our many satisfied client reviews, and our 5-Star rating to find out why we are the Best Tax Preparation Service serving
Our Services
Tax-Saving Strategies & Preparation
Ready to save more on your bottom line? We spend countless hours to find every possible tax break. We complete Federal and State returns
Additional Services
Audit protections up to $2500 due
to preparer error
Business Registration
Notary Services
FREE Services for Clients
Your dependent’s returns are free
Free Notary Services for up to 5 documents
Completion of Senior Tax Freeze Forms (Blue Book ptr1 or ptr2)
Guarantee #1
Our Prices Will Beat the Major Franchise Prices by 50%
Send Us Last Years Return and
Give Us a Chance to Prove It
Guarantee #2
If you are penalized due to incorrect filing due to our mistake, we will assume responsibility for any penalties and interest assessed only until
your first letter has been addressed to you
“ I guarantee you won’t get audited” is making an empty promise. Even if your return is handled properly, there’s still a chance of an audit
Click Here To Call
856-456-5551
More Testimonials & Videos
See why we’re one of the highest rated tax prep professionals in Gloucester County
Ashley F.
Very pleased with your services and prices! It was worth the trip. I am looking forward to this years refund, thanks for uncovering some deductions that were missed last year. Will do business again.
Veron Hughes
I'm so glad to have found this hidden gem in Westville, NJ. Ray, the owner was polite, very easy to talk to. He is WELL educated and full of knowledge when it comes to taxes. He has a client in me forever. A1 service! I recommend Family Tax Services to anyone! The lowest prices and I really mean that! Try them out...you'll thank me later.
Stacey Murphy
Ray, Lois & Colleen hands down are the best team. They are a full service tax professionals with the family trust element that is always present. My entire family goes here you should too.
Derick Brian
.....they were really helpful with helping me prepare my taxes. i would recommend them to everyone
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Melissa C
...his staff is excellent
I wouldn't go see anybody else but Ray. He is fast and accurate. I have been going there since 2006.
Finding The Top Tax Preparation Service In Gloucester County
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5-Star Experience!
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Looking for A True Relationship-Based-Company?
Family Tax Services is the only Tax Service in the Westville, Gloucester City, and Gloucester County area that strives to excel in all your needs.
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Contact Information
Myth-
Filing for Tax Extensions Increases Audit Chances
Does the IRS become suspicious when you ask for more time to file your taxes? Absolutely not. Businesses have hundreds of legitimate reasons why they can’t meet the April 15th deadline. Filing for an extension shows that employers are committed to filing their taxes accurately, which actually decreases the chances of an audit.
The truth is that over 10 million businesses and taxpayers are granted six-month filing extensions every year. This actually helps the IRS during the peak season and there is absolutely no evidence of late filers being audited more often. This myth is 100% busted.
Call Us To Learn More! 856-456-5551
Meet Our Team
Raymond Ocejo Jr
Owner of Family Tax Services llc. established at this location since 2007, a registered tax preparer with over 20 years experience (since 1996).
He maintains continuing education credits with the IRS and is expected to complete the enrolled agent status in 2019.
He is proud that he has been able to continuously provide a low cost solution for tax preparation while still maintaining quality work.
We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the Best Service in the industry!
Colleen Cotton
Working for FTS since 2013 and has an incredible understanding of the tax laws. Originally hired as an intake person but quickly learned the tax rules.
In addition to the practical knowledge she gained here at FTS she completed her formal Tax education at a major franchise, and maintains her knowledge through yearly accredited training.
Colleen handles business registration, quarterly sales tax and specialty taxes.
Lois Ocejo
In addition to preparing tax returns, Lois performs the important function of quality control. She verifies all of the completed returns for accuracy as well as the scheduling of appointments.
Another of Lois's functions is to monitor and control the flow of work between the IRS and State agencies.
She makes sure that your return and refund is processed as quickly as
possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes you different than other Tax Firms?
We take pride in our work and our client base. Each client is handled individually and we take time to explain everything about your return. We are not just number cruncher's. We can complete most returns in just one sitting, our price base is very competitive and we can guarantee to beat the major competitor prices by at least 50%.
Do you guarantee your work?
We guarantee that if you are penalized due to incorrect filing due to our mistake, we will assume responsibility for any penalties and interest assessed upon until your first letter has been addressed to you “. Even if your return is handled properly, there’s still a chance of an audit.is making an empty promiseI guarantee you won’t get audited”
What do you charge for your services?
We pride ourselves on not overcharging for tax preparation. Most of our returns range from $75 to $190.00 any additional charges will be agreed upon before the preparation begins. No Preparer by law can charge a percent of your tax return; it is against the IRS regulations.
Call Us y For A Free Quote 856-456-5551
Easy To Find & Convenient Hours
Click Here to Call For Appointment (856-456-5551)
Hours: May-December -
By Appointment Only Call or eMail
Hours [January - April*]
Monday 09:00 am - 7:00 pm
Tuesday 09:00 am - 7:00 pm
Wednesday 09:00 am - 7:00 pm
Thursday 09:00 am - 7:00 pm
Friday 09:00 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday 09:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday Closed
* Year Round by Appointment / Parking On-Site
How to Track your refunds Current year Federal Return
or
mobile app IRS2go
(follow instructions for get refund)
or
call (800) 829-1954
Amended return
www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return
follow instructions for amended return status
NJ State refunds
https://www.state.nj.us/treasury/taxation/checkrefundstatus.shtml
or
call 800 323-4400 take option 3
Pennsylvania State refunds
https://www.doreservices.state.pa.us/PITServices/WheresMy/Refund
or call (888) 728-2937
Tax Preparation Check List
In order to receive the greatest benefit from our tax preparation service, it is important that you gather and organize your income tax documentation.
For New clients, please provide your prior year Federal and State tax returns. The reason is that you may have certain carryover losses, depreciable items and state tax payments which will be needed in preparing your current year tax return.
It is also helpful as a guide in conducting the interview process.
In addition, please bring
Personal Data:
• Social Security Numbers including spouse, children and other dependents,
ex-spouse if alimony is paid, non dependent for claiming head of household status.
• Childcare provider: name, address, tax ID or Social Security Number.
• A personal check containing your bank routing number and checking account number
to speed up your tax refund using direct deposit by the IRS or State.
Income Data:
• W-2 Forms • Social Security forms • Pension and Annuity • State tax refunds
• Schedules K-1 from Partnership, S-Corp and Trusts • Alimony received
• Gambling and Lottery winnings • Scholarships and fellowships
• Unemployment compensation forms (NJ does not provide this, gather this yourself)
Homeowner Data:
• Residential notice of property tax (green postcard from NJ)
• Mortgage interest form 1098 • Home equity loan interest
• Real estate taxes paid • Closing/settlement documentation
Self-Employment Data:
• Business Income – 1099-MISC and/or own records
• Business related expenses such as, o Advertising o Health Insurance
o Retirement Benefits o Material o Equipment o Computers
o Automobile Information (mileage, make and year of car, date placed in service)
• Employment taxes and other related taxes • Payroll information
Rental Property Ownership:
• Expenses for maintaining, advertising, commissions,
insurance, management fees, legal and other professional fees, utilities, taxes, supplies, repairs, travel for visiting property, and mortgage interest.
• Cost of major improvements which will be added to the basis of the property.
• Rental income received
Financial:
• Interest income statements – 1099-INT • Dividend income statements – 1099-DIV
• Broker transactions – 1099B • Margin interest paid
• Retirement/Pension distribution – 1099R • Student Loan interest paid
Potential Deductible Expenses:
• Gifts/Items to charity both cash and fair market value • Adoption expenses
• Alimony paid • Child care expenses • State Sales Tax Payments
• Medical expenses (especially for NJ 2% limitation)
For New Clients Only!
Click on the Blue Button Below to Safely Enter and Submit
Your Information
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Note:
1) You may have to refresh your browser if the Form does not appear
2) Be sure to Enter the Minimum Required Information indicated by an"*"
3) To complete your entry
You MUST CLICK the "Submit" Button at the Bottom of the Form
Suggestions and Notes:
Have your information ready for yourself and Dependent(s) (if applicable) before proceeding.
You will receive a confirmation email from Family Tax to confirm your submission.
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Additional Reminders:
1) Your bank routing and account number for direct deposit.
(Bring Documentation for proof) IE. Voided check, copy of check etc.
2) Your 2019 and 2020 tax returns (due to various tax credits or changes you may be eligible for)
3) (if applicable) Advanced Child Tax Credit. This is IRS Form 6419 letter.
4) If you received NJ unemployment payments, you need to get form 1099g online from the Division of Unemployment Insurance https://www.myunemployment.nj.gov/ (The state of New Jersey does not send out unemployment statements).
5) Lastly, also bring in any additional tax related documents such as W-2’s, 1099’s etc.
