Program seeks to help low-and-moderate-income residents file annual tax returns for free
As the challenges continue for many in our community, maximizing this year’s tax refund is crucial. Families are counting on every penny to pay for essentials, cover rent or mortgage payments, or build up emergency savings. To help, United Way of Chester County is pleased to announce that the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is open and accepting clients. In partnership with Life Transforming Ministries, VITA provides free tax preparation for low-and moderate-income households and has become an essential service to thousands of Chester County residents. This program is made possible in part with a grant received by United Way of Chester County from the United States IRS as well as funding from the United Way of Chester County’s Community Impact & Innovation Fund.
VITA offers drop-off site locations throughout Chester County, including Coatesville, Downingtown, Exton, Landenberg, Parkesburg, Phoenixville, Pottstown, Royersford and West Chester. The program also helps taxpayers access all tax credits for which they are eligible — including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC). By partnering with the United Way of Chester County, VITA also provides My Free Taxes, a free, do-it-yourself online tax filing program with no income restrictions.
Last year, VITA served 2,662 households in Chester County, generating an economic impact of over $5.4 million. To have your tax return(s) prepared at a VITA site, you will need to bring the following information:
- Picture ID for primary and secondary taxpayer
- All forms W2/1099 or other income
- Original or copy of social security cards for everyone on the return
- 1098 education forms
- 1095- A Market place health insurance forms
- Information for all deductions/credits including childcare costs with the provider’s tax ID number
- Copy of last year’s return (if available)
United Way of Chester County is committed to ensuring that our community can easily and accurately file their taxes to receive the refunds and credits they deserve. To learn more about this essential service to our community, please visit www.ChesterCountyFreeTaxes.com or call (610) 380-9099.