and the Williamsburg area has some options for those needing help filing the right paperwork.
(File photo/Goodfellow Air Force Base)
Tax season is right around the corner, and to alleviate stress, some Williamsburg agencies will be offering free tax preparation assistance.
VITA
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program will once again be available to prepare and e-file federal and state returns beginning Feb. 1, according to a City of Williamsburg news release.
VITA organizers say the program is designed to be a one-stop income filing focusing on
individuals with low to moderate income, individuals with disabilities and the elderly who cannot afford expensive tax preparation fees.
The National Society of Accountants reports that the average cost of a professional income tax preparer in 2014 was $273.
Sponsored by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, VITA has served the community for more than 30 years.
Residents can find VITA at 306 South Henry Street beginning Feb.1. Hours of operation will be Tuesday-Thursday from 1:30-5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30-1 p.m.
VITA will be open for business from February 1, 2018 through April 16 since the 15 falls
on Sunday.
To receive the free services, you need to bring valid identification, social security cards, income W-2’s and 1099’s, deduction receipts, identity theft PIN, federal and state returns and bank account information, according to the Williamsburg Regional Library.
VITA services can also be found in Newport News and Hampton Roads. Locations for services in those areas can be found online.
VITA volunteers are trained by the Internal Revenue Service and will be using the IRS-provided software.
Additional volunteers with experience in filing tax returns are still needed and can register by calling Al Cummis at 757-259-0739. Questions can be directed to [email protected].
AARP Tax-Aide
AARP is also providing tax assistance again this year, according to the Williamsburg Regional Library.
Appointments will begin on Feb.16 at both the Williamsburg Library on Scotland Street and the James City County Library on Croaker Road. You can call 757-259-4072 starting Feb. 1 to make an appointment.
AARP Tax-Aide is sponsored by the AARP Foundation and provides assistance to seniors as well as low and moderate income-earners of all ages. While services are first to come first served, locals over the age of 59 will be given priority.
Volunteers are annually certified by the IRS. All common tax forms will be prepared, but business forms will be limited to schedules C-EZ, D, and SE.
For those who failed to file properly in previous years, volunteers will only assist them if the required background information is provided.
Taxpayers requiring preparation of previous year returns or amendments will be asked to make appointments for later in the tax season. Priority is given to 2017 returns.
For more information visit the Williamsburg Regional Library website.
