Although there have been no identified cases of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Western NY, United Way of Southern Chautauqua County is closely monitoring the situation and following the guidance of county, state and federal agencies. Our top priority is the safety of our staff, volunteers and partners.
For those who use VITA Volunteers to file their tax return, there is the option for a “virtual” VITA tax appointment. These virtual appointments are safe, secure and convenient. Those with an appointment may simply drop off their documents and materials at a pre-arranged time and location, and the IRS – certified VITA volunteer will do their taxes off-site while on the phone with the client. Virtual appointments have been available and utilized in Chautauqua County since 2017. If one has concerns about safety or wants to take preventative precautions because of COVID-19, the Virtual VITA appointment is available and we are strongly encouraging individuals to use this option if possible. Please note that materials cannot be dropped off at any time, but an individual must have an appointment for drop off their materials so that a certified volunteer can receive them. An IRS certified VITA volunteer will contact you by phone while preparing the tax return off-site. A time will be set for the taxpayer to pick up and sign the completed return.
For more information about VITA or to change your existing appointment to a virtual one, please call 211 or 1-800-696-9211.