Every year, hundreds of community members receive free tax preparation provide by the

 United Way of Central Louisiana's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance(VITA) Program.

Program Impact 2022

Dates of Operation: 02/06/2023 – 04/19/2023

Location: Alexandria Louisiana; Marksville Louisiana

Goals

• Increase financial stability through maximization of federal and state tax returns
   

About Volunteer Income Tax Assistance(VITA)

The VITA program has operated for over 50 years. VITA sites offer free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, including:

• People who generally make $60,000 or less
• Persons with disabilities; and
• Limited English-speaking taxpayers

In addition, the VITA program offers free tax help, particularly for those who are 60 years of age and older, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors.

While the IRS manages the program UWCL is a partner who staffs the volunteers. The IRS-certified volunteers who provide tax counseling are often retired individuals associated with non-profit organizations that receive grants from the IRS.

VITA services are not only free, but they are also a reliable and trusted source for preparing tax returns. All VITA volunteers who prepare returns must take and pass tax law training that meets or exceeds IRS standards. This training includes maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of all taxpayer information. In addition to requiring volunteers to certify their knowledge of the tax laws, the IRS requires a quality review check for every return prepared at a VITA site prior to filing. Each filing season, tens of thousands of dedicated VITA volunteers prepare millions of federal and state returns. They also assist taxpayers with the preparation of thousands of Facilitated Self-Assistance returns.

Eligibility

• People who generally make $60,000 or less
• Persons with disabilities
• Limited English-speaking taxpayers