Free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is again available in Hamilton and Wright counties this year, according to Barb Wollan of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The option is possible thanks to the efforts of dedicated local volunteers, and begins in early February.
NEW this year: a Belmond site will eliminate the need for Belmond residents to travel to Clarion for tax appointments. In addition, Wollan reports that “We’re continuing the new self-preparation option, and providing assistance to clients who choose to prepare their own returns.” As a result, two VITA options are available locally: a two-step appointment process, AND the “do-it-yourself” option.
Do-It-Yourself. Taxpayers can do their own federal and state tax returns free online, at a link provided by the local VITA site, while turning to the VITA program for help in choosing the right filing status and claiming the credits they are eligible for. That help will be available by phone and email. To get started, send an email to CentralIowaVITA@gmail.com, no sooner than January 23, and you will receive a response with instructions.
Preparation by Volunteers. Those who prefer to have their tax return prepared by IRS-certified volunteers must make an appointment for a short (20-minute) intake meeting. BEFORE that appointment they must complete information worksheets. Clients can pick up copies of the forms at the County Extension Office (311 Bank St in Webster City OR 2302 Madison Ave in Clarion) OR they can come 20 minutes early to their appointment and fill out the forms on site.
After the intake meeting, the volunteer team will prepare and quality-check the return, and then the client will come in for their second appointment to review and sign the return. The process will take less than two weeks, usually less than a week. Note: a one-appointment option is available for clients who live out of town, to avoid the need for a second visit.
Wollan particularly encourages families who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) to take advantage of the free tax preparation. By avoiding tax and loan fees, these families can put 100% of those funds to use in ways that build financial security and help them reach additional financial goals.”
Eligibility. For the “do-it-yourself” option, the only eligibility rule is that income must be below $79,000. Taxpayers who wish to have taxes prepared for them by a volunteer must fit certain criteria, since there are some tax issues the IRS does not allow volunteers to address. Most taxpayers with income reported on W-2 or 1099 forms can have their returns done by the volunteers. Volunteers do not prepare returns with farm or rental income, or in certain other complex situations. Taxpayers with low to moderate incomes are eligible – anyone up to $45,000 and families with two or more children up to $63,000.
Appointments Required. In Clarion call Wright County Extension (515-532-3453); in Belmond, call 641-425-9713. Appointments are also available in Webster City: call 515-297-3717. Local VITA efforts are supported by ISU Extension and by funding through the Iowa Center for Economic Success.
