Want to Save Yourself Money This Tax Season?
by monkk
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is a nationwide program sponsored by the IRS that is available during tax season. Volunteers provide basic tax preparation assistance to individuals and families with a household income of approximately $53,000 a year or less. An alternative program helps you prepare your own taxes if your income is below $60,000 a year.
This service allows low-income families to file their taxes for free - without expensive tax prep services or predatory refund-anticipation loans. The United Way of Washtenaw County VITA program also helps you receive valuable tax credits or programs that you may be eligible for, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and Home Heating Credit.
The VITA Program ensures that low-income individuals receive the maximum refund possible, to meet their own pressing basic needs or save for the future. In 2015, the United Way of Washtenaw County VITA Program returned approximately $375,000 to the community.
The United Way of Washtenaw County VITA Program offers a few services:
* Full-service tax preparation: Available by appointment only, February 4-April 6. Schedule your appointment now by calling 734-677-7235 or email vita@uwwashtenaw.org.
* Onsite or At-Home Self-Preparation: For taxpayers that do not qualify for full-service tax prep or those who prefer to do their own taxes with a "coach" available. Tax coach assistance is available over the phone or onsite if you have questions or need help. Free help is available from 1-855-698-9435. MyFreeTaxes.com is a free service for individuals with a combined income of $62,000 or less in 2015. Access from any computer with internet access and file your taxes for free.
* Scan & Go: For qualifying tax clients at select locations. Have your documents scanned and your tax return will be prepared off-site to be picked up by you in one or two weeks.
