United Way offers free tax help through VITA program

The United Way of Tuscarawas County is partnering with the United Way of Greater Stark County to offer free, confidential tax preparation for individuals and families earning $69,000 or less through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.

Scheduling is underway and will continue until appointment slots are filled. A limited number of appointments are available from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from Feb. 10 through April 9.

Residents in the southern part of the county who want to use the program are encouraged to schedule for Wednesday, March 18, the only day VITA volunteers will complete taxes at the Newcomerstown branch of DoverPhila Federal Credit Union. Those needing bilingual services are encouraged to schedule for Saturday, March 21, when interpreters will be available.

Appointments may be made by calling the United Way Stark Call Center at 330-994-8482, scheduling online at tuscunitedway.org/vita, or calling the United Way of Tuscarawas County at 330-343-7772.

Participants should bring all relevant tax documents. Envelopes listing required documents and paperwork are available at the United Way of Tuscarawas County. Paperwork may be completed before the appointment or on-site.

Appointments will be held at the DoverPhila Federal Credit Union administrative building, 119 Fillmore Ave., Dover, behind the bank. Participants should park in a designated VITA spot. A volunteer will collect documents and assist with paperwork, if needed. Once volunteers have everything required to complete the return, participants may leave.

After taxes are prepared, participants will receive a phone call and can pick up completed returns at the United Way of Tuscarawas County, 1458 Fifth St. NW, New Philadelphia.

“The program helps those of moderate to low income who need a break and very much helps those individuals who have anxiety about filing taxes,” VITA Program Coordinator Jack Dooling said. “VITA is another example of quality programming by United Way.”

For information, call 330-343-7772. For details about VITA, visit tuscunitedway.org and click the “Tax Help” button.