FAQ’s
WHAT IS THE VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) PROGRAM?
As part of the Northern Virginia CASH Campaign, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program provides free tax preparation services to low-income families. Working with local businesses and government agencies, the mission is to raise awareness about the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and increase financial literacy among low-income taxpayers. Since 2008, the coalition has completed 55,950 free tax returns, bringing back over $88 million in refunds to the Northern Virginia community!
WHERE WILL THE SITES BE LOCATED?
Site arrangements have been made at various convenient locations throughout Northern Virginia, including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, and Prince William Counties.
WILL MY VOLUNTEER EFFORT REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
In 2019, the Northern Virginia VITA program resulted in federal tax refunds of over $7.6 million for families and individuals with low income. With the help of 291 dedicated and trained volunteers staffing 15 VITA sites and six Facilitated Self Assistance (FSA) sites, 5,581 low-income families saved more than $1.3 million in professional filing fees and prepared and filed their 2018 tax returns. Over $983,000 was awarded back to those families who qualified for the Child Tax Credit (CTC) and over $2.3 million to those who qualified for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
WHAT KIND OF FINANCIAL EDUCATION SHOULD WE BE ABLE TO PROVIDE TO VITA CUSTOMERS?
The most significant financial education we provide is helping our clients understand their tax returns. Our volunteers take their time and explain the returns to their clients. A typical client question is – why is my refund different from last year? This opens up a conversation about dependents, filing status, income and credits. We also spend time helping clients understand their Forms W-2 and paystubs. For more information on additional financial resources provided through VITA, click here .
