The Tygart Valley United Way opened their Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program on January 23, 2023 and will be going door to door to recognize Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Day on Friday, January 27, 2023. Per the IRS, The EITC is a tax credit that helps low- to moderate-income workers and families get a tax break. If you qualify, you can use the credit to reduce the taxes you owe and could give an increase to your refund. This year the Tygart Valley United Way will be going door to door in the area to promote awareness for the EITC and VITA, which will be available across their footprint in Marion, Barbour, Taylor, Tucker, and Randolph counties.
The expanded VITA program will help more individuals and families on the path to financial stability. The program is fortunate to have volunteers and support from several corporate partners. Also, the Tygart Valley United Way has partnered with Alderson-Broaddus University for the Philippi site. United Way is fortunate to have several partners as part of their regional coalition, including the Huntington Banks, MVB Bank, EQT, the Salvation Army, West Virginia Alliance for Sustainable Families, and Tucker County Schools. The program has also received a federal IRS grant to expand services.
VITA operates in local community centers, agencies, and libraries across the country to make free tax prep services accessible to individuals and families. On average, American taxpayers spend $200 or more on tax preparation fees. VITA is crucial to individuals with fixed incomes, people with disabilities, and those who are struggling to make ends meet. VITA allows filers to maximize their refunds through tax credits and avoid preparation and filing fees.
Residents with a combined household income under $73,000 in 2022 are eligible to patriciate in the program.
If people are more comfortable doing their own taxes, United Way also provides MyFreeTaxes.com. MyFreeTaxes.com is a safe, easy, and secure way to file your return. The online platform is powered TaxSlayer.
Appointments are open through April 15th. To schedule an appointment, call 304-366-4550 or visit tvunitedway.org.
