Free Tax Prep

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), provides free tax preparation services to eligible individuals and families.

VITA serves the following residents:

  • Low and moderate-income taxpayers
  • Veterans
  • Persons with disabilities
  • Persons with limited English proficiency

For tax year 2023, the income guideline is $64,000 and below, with this threshold adjusted annually. VITA ensures that taxpayers receive their maximum refunds and are aware of all benefits they are entitled to, including the Earned Income Credit, Child Tax Credit, premium tax credit, and education credits.

Call 2-1-1 (888.421.1266) or 251.219.0606 for a tax preparation site near you or click here to schedule an appointment online!

VITA Program Benefits

  • Free Tax Preparation: VITA offers qualified individuals free tax preparation services, ensuring they receive their maximum refunds.

  • Access to Tax Benefits: VITA helps taxpayers claim all benefits they are entitled to, including the Earned Income Credit, Child Tax Credit, and education credits.

  • Financial Security: By providing a safe place for tax preparation, VITA helps taxpayers avoid predatory tax practices that target low-income households.

  • Certified Volunteer Assistance: Returns are prepared by volunteers who undergo annual IRS testing and certification, ensuring accurate and reliable service.

  • Holistic Financial Support: VITA volunteers assist taxpayers with tax withholding strategies, basic financial planning, and discussions of life events that impact their tax situation and financial well-being.

We are pleased to announce that we will continue to offer assistance off-season for anyone needing tax help, whether for the current year or for prior years dating back to 2018. Appointments can be made by calling 251.219.0606.

We also can provide taxpayers with a link to self-file their returns electronically. To get the link and get help with any questions, email taxhelp@uwswa.org.

2023 VITA Statistics

1,080 Filed Returns

Total program impact for taxpayers was $1,053,965

Served 1,437 (total individuals service including dependents)

30 Volunteer Tax Preparers and Program Greeters

1,640 hours

$46,543.20 in economic impact

6 Schedulers

48 hours

$1,362.24 in economic impact

VITA Volunteers

United Way welcomes new volunteers interested in joining the VITA program. Volunteers help us meet the rising demand for our services and make a difference in the lives of those in our community who need it most.

Benefits of Becoming a VITA Volunteer

  • Learn Valuable Skills: Gain experience in tax preparation, critical decision-making, and working with diverse populations.

  • Make a Difference: Help low and moderate-income individuals and families receive the tax assistance they need to thrive.

  • Flexible Commitment: Volunteer on a schedule that works for you, with training beginning in late October or early November.

  • Community Impact: Make a direct impact on your community’s financial well-being.

  • Training and Support: Receive training and support to ensure you are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to assist taxpayers effectively. Previous tax preparation experience is not required.

To learn more, contact Brad Martin at bmartin@uwswa.org or 251.433.3624.

A Special Thank You to Our VITA Community Partners

  • City of Chickasaw
  • New Horizons Credit Union
  • Olenski Brothers General Store & Office Supply
  • RSVP of Mobile County
  • West Regional Mobile Public Library

All of the VITA tax preparation sites are provided to the United Way free of charge. We thank our partners for their donation and support of this very important program. We also thank the other organizations that provide office supplies and other program materials.