Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program sees almost 200% increase in number of federal and state returns filed

The VITA program operated by the Community Action Partnership of Staunton, Augusta and Waynesboro (CAPSAW) expanded services this year and with the help of 27 volunteers filed close to 150 federal and state returns.  This service saved area consumers approximately $28,000 based on the average cost of $200 a return at a commercial preparation site.  Returns were prepared by trained volunteers and filed electronically.  Program participants provided overwhelmingly positive reviews of the service.  According to Anna Leavitt, CAPSAW Coordinator the VITA program is an excellent example of a community taking action to strengthen economic security for residents.  “The program relies on the donation of time, space and technology.  Each of the three localities, school systems, Mary Baldwin College and area employers worked together to publicize and support this effort.”  Leavitt hopes to see the growth trend continue into next tax season allowing more tax payers an opportunity to fully utilize their returns.  27 volunteers completed training to become certified by the Internal Revenue Service as tax preparers.  The volunteers are trained to file taxes for residents earning under $50,000 in taxable income and help them identify tax credits for which they are eligible.  Common tax credits include the Earned Income Tax Credit, child and dependent care, education and child tax credits.

For more information on plans for next tax season, contact CAPSAW staff.