Tempe VITA program exceeds tax preparation goals with volunteer support

During the recent joint meeting of the Tempe City Council and the Tempe Community Council, a significant focus was placed on the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which provides essential tax preparation services to underserved residents. This initiative, part of a nationwide effort by the IRS, has been operational in Tempe since February 2002 and is currently hosted at Gracie's Village, thanks to their generous donation of the space for the entire tax season.

The VITA program offers free tax preparation for individuals who are low-income, have limited English proficiency, are handicapped, or are seniors. For the upcoming 2024 tax season, low-income is defined as earning $67,000 or less. The program operates on specific days, with hours set for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, and is staffed primarily by trained volunteers. Two site coordinators oversee the operations, ensuring that services run smoothly and that volunteers are supported.

In addition to tax preparation, the VITA site includes a community resource advisor who helps clients access additional resources, contributing to their overall financial stability. A key benefit of the program is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which can provide significant refunds and reduce tax liabilities for eligible individuals, further aiding low-income taxpayers.

The Tempe VITA program aims to submit over 1,000 tax returns during the 2024 season, building on the dedication of 38 volunteers who have undergone extensive training. This initiative not only assists residents with their tax needs but also plays a crucial role in enhancing financial stability within the community.

As the tax season approaches, the collaboration between the Tempe City Council and the Tempe Community Council highlights their commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring that residents have access to vital resources that can improve their financial well-being.