United Way offers income tax assistance

TORRINGTON — The United Way of Northwest Connecticut is once again offering the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, or VITA, program to the public for the upcoming tax season.

The VITA program offers free tax preparation services to individuals and families with a total household income of $54,000 or less, in addition to offering service to individuals with disabilities or limited English-speaking abilities. IRS-certified volunteers will work with families and individuals in need of assistance, including help with filing tax returns, claiming refunds, and utilizing additional tax credits to benefit those filing.

Those seeking to use the program must first meet the following qualifications: a total household income of $54,000 or less; must file either 1040EZ or 1040-A tax form; cannot own a small business; cannot have itemized return; cannot complete prior year’s tax returns at this appointment. Anyone who has income between up to $64,000 and does not meet the above qualifications can visit MyFreeTaxes.com. This site is a partnership between H&R Block and United Way. For additional information on the VITA program or My Free Taxes, call 860-489-4131.

At the time of an appointment, an individual should bring with them: valid picture ID; copies of all W-2, 1098, 1099, and 1095B forms and the amount of other income received; tax identification number (SSN) for yourself, spouse, and anyone else listed on tax return; provider’s address and tax identification number for child/dependent care credit; and a copy of prior year’s tax return (if possible).

Appointments are available on Wednesday evenings, 5-8 p.m.through tax season at the United Way of Northwest Connecticut, 333 Kennedy Drive in Torrington. Call 860-489-4131 to schedule an appointment.

The United Way has expanded coverage this year to include the Salvation Army in Winsted and the Winsted Senior Center. Call the United Way at 860-489-4131 and they will schedule an appointment in those two locations.

The service is provided by VITA trained volunteers, as a United Way of Northwest CT Community Impact Service and is free to qualifying individuals and families. A savings initiative, SaverLife, is provided by the Connecticut United Ways and EARN.org as a part of the ALICE Saves Campaign.