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County extension highlights VITA free tax-prep service; site handles first-come clients and returns over 1,600 last year
Summary
Johnson County Extension outlined the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) service at the Sunset Building, noting partnerships with MU, El Centro and the KC Metro Tax Coalition and that the site handled over 1,600 returns last year and offers first-come, first-serve service and drop-off.
Tara Markley, executive director for the Johnson County Extension Council, told the Board of County Commissioners on Feb. 20, 2025, that the county-hosted VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) site at the Sunset Building is open Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday and provides free tax preparation for eligible, underserved residents.
"We are the largest site in Johnson County," Markley said. She told commissioners the site processed more than 1,600 tax returns last year. The site is part of a partnership with the KC Metro Tax Coalition and the University of Missouri (MU), which carries the IRS grant, and coordinates with El Centro for language support and the Johnson County Extension Education Foundation for supplies.
Markley described service details: Wednesday and Thursday hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday hours are 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; the site accepts federal and state returns, state homestead forms, and provides ALS interpretation for people who are hearing impaired. She said the county-run site operates first-come, first-serve, while many other area VITA or AARP sites require appointments. The site also offers a secure office drop box for returns during weekday business hours.
Commissioners asked about outreach and accessibility. Commissioner Myers asked how the county communicates the service; Markley listed multiple efforts including county and city websites, library guides, social media, news releases, United Way 2-1-1 referrals and printed outreach in English and Spanish. Commissioner Fast asked whether AARP had used a satellite site at Roland Park Community Center; Markley said Extension only staffs the Sunset Building site but would follow up about AARP locations. Commissioner Allenbrand and others thanked the volunteers and noted the importance of free tax help for seniors, people with disabilities and limited-English residents.
Markley said volunteers call back in some cases after drop-off to request additional paperwork and to obtain signatures before filing. "The drop off ability has really helped folks that cannot come during the day," she added.
The board did not take action on VITA; Markley presented the program during the manager’s report and responded to commissioner questions.
