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Montgomery County reiterates free VITA tax-help; appointments required starting Jan. 20
Summary
Montgomery County's VITA program offers free tax-preparation by certified volunteers for qualifying residents (Eddie Me9ndez says those earning under $69,000 may qualify); appointments begin Jan. 20 in Rockville and countywide Jan. 26. Phone and online scheduling details provided.
Montgomery County is encouraging residents to use the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program this tax season, offering free, volunteer-led tax preparation for qualifying taxpayers. "Este es un programa nacional que es gratis," said Eddie Me9ndez, a VITA program specialist, during a Spanish-language county radio program.
Why it matters: VITA connects low- and moderate-income residents with certified preparers who can help file federal and state returns at no charge and explain changes that may affect refunds and tax credits this year.
Who qualifies and key limits: Me9ndez told the program that the service can assist people who "hacen menos 69000." In the interview he clarified the $69,000 figure in the context of individual filers; the host and Me9ndez discussed whether the threshold applies to individual or joint filers. The program repeatedly emphasized that certified preparers and Spanish-language assistance are available.
Schedule and access: Me9ndez said VITA will begin serving in Rockville the week of Jan. 20 and that countywide sites will open beginning Jan. 26, the start of the IRS filing season. Appointments are required at most sites; the program will hold a special Saturday, March 14 intake day where walk-ins are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Me9ndez repeated the county help line for appointments and additional information.
Language access and ID: "Sí, sí, sí," Me9ndez said when asked whether Spanish-speaking certified preparers were available; phone interpretation is also offered through county systems. He confirmed that people who lack a Social Security number can often use an ITIN (tax identification number) to file and urged listeners not to avoid filing, particularly given possible future immigration or legal consequences for missing documentation.
Tax-law notes: Me9ndez summarized several federal changes that could affect refunds and credits this season, including adjustments to the child tax credit and rules about refundability; he encouraged taxpayers to consult VITA for personalized help.
Contact and next steps: Call the county VITA appointment line as provided during the program or visit the Montgomery County site listed by county communications to schedule an appointment. A special no-appointment Saturday will be offered March 14 at locations announced on the county site.
What the county says next: The program urged callers to book early: appointments begin Jan. 20 in Rockville and countywide Jan. 26, with additional seasonal dates and locations that the county posts online.
