Program seeks to help working residents who do not earn high wages file annual tax returns for free
As the challenges continue for many in our community, maximizing this year’s tax refund is crucial. Families and individuals are grappling with financial strain as the ever-rising cost of living and inflationary pressures weigh heavily on their budgets. To help, United Way of Chester County is pleased to announce that the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is open and accepting clients. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with Life Transforming Ministries (LTM), offers free tax preparation services to working individuals who do not receive high wages, aiding thousands of residents in the Chester County area.
“In times of economic uncertainty, maximizing every available resource becomes paramount for the well-being of our community,” said Christopher Saello, President and CEO of United Way of Chester County. “The VITA program is not just about preparing tax returns; it’s a lifeline for families, empowering them to navigate financial challenges and secure a stable future.”
The VITA program, supported by a grant from the United States IRS and funding from the United Way of Chester County’s Community Impact & Innovation Fund, aims to provide financial relief to those who need it most. Last year, VITA served 5,941 individuals in Chester County, generating an economic impact of over $5 million.
VITA offers drop-off site locations in key areas throughout Chester County, including Coatesville, Downingtown, Exton, Kennett Square, Parkesburg, Phoenixville, Pottstown, Royersford, and West Chester. Additionally, a virtual service option is available through a secure portal. The program ensures taxpayers access all eligible tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC).
Bill Shaw, Executive Director of Life Transforming Ministries, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, saying “tax season can be confusing, stressful, and costly. We’re blessed to see so many volunteers and organizations changing that story by partnering together to serve their hard-working neighbors across a growing number of communities.”
To have your tax return(s) prepared at a VITA site, individuals need to bring essential documents, including picture ID, all income forms, social security cards, education and health insurance forms, information for deductions/credits, and a copy of last year’s return if available.
United Way of Chester County is committed to ensuring that its 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.