Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA)

What is VITA?

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program can help income-eligible people file their tax returns for free, and claim the Earned Income Tax Credit.

If you worked in 2007, but earned less than the income guidelines listed, you may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit - even if you are not required to file an income tax return!

Our IRS certified volunteers can help you file your tax returns for free, and help you claim the refund that you are entitled to. That’s money you can use for a car, to save for a home, to get caught up on bills, or save for the future!

What is the Earned Income Tax Credit?

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a tax credit for people who work and have earned less than $39,783 in the 2007 tax year. A tax credit generally puts more money back in your pocket because it reduces the amount of tax you owe.

We Can Help You File Your Taxes and Grow Your Assets!

All Federal and New York State returns are filed electronically.

You will receive your refund in as little as 10 days.

An IRS certified volunteer will prepare your taxes. There is no cost to you.

Through COI/CODI and various financial institutions, you will learn about asset development, Individual Development Account (IDA) opportunities, and the availability of financial education.  You may also want to read our financial education brochure.

Do I Qualify?

 *investment income must be $2,900 or less for the year

What Should I Bring?

Residents who qualify should bring the following items with them to the site for tax preparation:

• This year’s tax package if you received one and a copy of last year’s federal and state returns, if available
• Wage and earning statements (Form W-2, W2-G, 1099-R) from all employers
• Interest and dividend statements from banks, unemployment insurance benefits (Form 1099)
• Valid photo identification
• Social Security cards and birth dates for you, your spouse, and dependent children
• To claim the Child/Dependent Care credit, bring total paid for daycare provider and the daycare provider’s tax identifying number (Social Security number or the provider’s business Employer Identification Number) and provider’s address
• If you wish to have your refund or a portion of it deposited directly into your savings or checking account, bring bank routing transit and account numbers
• Form 8332 or similar document for non-custodial parent claiming child, if applicable
• To file electronically on a ‘married filing jointly’ tax return, both spouses must be present to sign required forms

Where Can I Go?

From January 26 - April 10, 2008 you may go to the following free tax preparation sites:

Permanent Tax Preparation Sites:

Southwestern Independent Living Center
843 North Main Street, Jamestown
Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
Call first at 661-3014
Primarily serving the disabled but open to all

Chautauqua County Dept. of Social Services
110 East 4th Street, Jamestown
By appointment - call 661-8170

Remaining Tax Preparation Super Sites:

For more information call 2-1-1 or 1-888-6WNY211