Community volunteers assisting families with their tax preparation at the VITA program event.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is back in the Lowcountry, offering free, IRS-certified tax preparation services for low to moderate-income residents. Starting in early February, eligible households with an adjusted gross income of $60,000 or less can benefit from expert assistance to maximize their tax refunds. Scheduled appointments will be available both in-person and online, making it convenient for all. Community volunteers are also needed to help make this program a success.
Exciting news, Lowcountry! The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is making its grand return to help residents kick off the new tax season the right way. That’s right, beginning in early February, you’ll have access to free, IRS-certified tax preparation services tailored specifically for low to moderate-income households. This program is a fantastic opportunity for working families, college students, and even retirees who are looking to make the most out of their tax returns.
For over a decade, VITA has been a crucial resource in assisting families to maximize their tax refunds and work towards financial self-sufficiency. A shining example of community collaboration, VITA is led by a partnership between the IRS, Beaufort County Human Services Alliance, Beaufort County Public Library System, and the United Way of the Lowcountry. These organizations unite to ensure that residents have the support and resources they need as tax season rolls around.
The beauty of the VITA program lies in its accessibility. If you are part of a low- or moderate-income household with an adjusted gross income of $60,000 or less, then you’ve got a golden ticket to take advantage of this service! Not only can you claim all relevant deductions and credits, including the well-known Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), but you also have expert volunteers ready to guide you through the process.
Scheduled appointments will be available Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and what’s even better is that you can choose between in-person visits or online options based on what fits your schedule best. It’s all about convenience!
If you’re planning to participate, make sure to gather some important documents. You will need to bring along last year’s tax return, any W-2 or 1099 forms you received, along with Social Security numbers for your dependents. Having these documents will make the process smoother for you and the volunteers assisting with your tax preparation.
To find a location near you and schedule an appointment, hop over to www.uwlowcountry.org/VITA. This handy site will also give you a complete list of the documents you’ll need to bring along! Additionally, if you’re curious about your eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit, you can check your status at www.irs.gov/eitcassistant.
If you have any questions or need assistance, be sure to reach out to the Berkeley County Resource Center at 843-769-8173 or the Dorchester County Resource Center at 843-566-7040. More information can also be obtained through email at lowcountryvitacoalition@gmail.com or by calling 843.379.3064. No question is too small when it comes to your finances!
So mark your calendars! As VITA rolls out its services in the Lowcountry this February, be sure you’re ready to take charge of your taxes. Take advantage of this wonderful resource and make the most of your tax experience!
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