AS “SNAPSHOT of two immigrant groups’’ (Oct. 15, Metro, Page B1) sadly illustrates, it is too easy to confuse failure to file tax returns with failure to pay taxes. In our experience working with many immigrant groups, Brazilian and Dominican immigrant workers, like the vast majority of low-wage working immigrants, do pay taxes in the form of payroll withholding, including Social Security and Medicare, as well as sales taxes. We have found two main reasons for not filing returns, even if refunds are due. One is fear of dealing with the government and distrust that it would actually give them money in the form of refunds; the second is a shortage of trustworthy tax preparers. We have never come across an immigrant client who does not want to be in compliance. However, they are aware of others who have been ill advised or deceived by dishonest tax preparers who charge fees according to refunds or offer rapid-refund loans that create nightmarish situations for many of our immigrant clients.
Boston and other cities and towns have partnered with the IRS and community groups to provide free electronic tax filing services for low-income families.
LUZ AREVALO
Boston
The writer is senior attorney for Greater Boston Legal Services/Low Income Tax Clinic. 
