Home > Money & Business > Personal Finance > Tax Information > Income tax changes increase refunds [Image: childcare] People are filing their 2008 income tax returns earlier this year, according to the Internal Revenue Service. Early filing statistics also show that the average individual refund is up. Reasons for larger refunds may include benefits from tax breaks such as the first-time homebuyer credit. If you haven’t filed yet, there is still time. Time for Taxes: Here are tips to save you money [Image: couple working on taxes] Many taxpayers already have gathered their documents, filled out their forms and sent in their tax return, but many will wait until the last minute. And the tax deadline is looming. But there is good news for most taxpayers. Volunteers Can Claim Expenses On Tax Forms A number of tax benefits are available to volunteers. Donors and volunteers can deduct out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the services given to a charitable organization if they itemize deductions on their tax returns.