Free Tax Filing Help with VITA: What You Need to Know

Free, IRS-backed tax help can stretch your refund and shrink your stress.

If the price of tax prep scares you more than the forms, you’re exactly who VITA was built for. Here’s how to use it fast—and walk out confident.

Start here: what to do first

• Find a nearby VITA/TCE site and check hours, appointment policy, and drop-off options. Use the official IRS locator to confirm details and avoid scams: Find Free Tax Prep.
• Make a one-page “tax kit”: photo ID; SSN/ITIN letters; last year’s return; W-2/1099s; 1098-T/E; 1095-A if you had Marketplace coverage; childcare totals; routing/account numbers.
• Write your “what changed” note (job switch, unemployment, new kid, moved states). Volunteers use this to spot credits you might miss.
• If you’re married filing jointly, both spouses should come (or follow site rules for e-signature). Bring IDs for both.
• Expect a quality review: a second volunteer checks the return before it’s filed—this is normal and protects your refund.

Who qualifies—income caps, ITIN filers, and the exceptions that surprise people

Tiny scenario: You make ~$40k, drive for gigs on weekends, and your spouse has an ITIN. You assume VITA can’t handle Schedule C or ITINs—turns out many sites can.

• VITA focuses on low-to-moderate income taxpayers, people with disabilities, and limited English speakers; many sites set income caps in the mid-$60k range, but it varies by site (check the IRS overview: Who VITA/TCE serves).
• ITIN filers: some locations can help apply for or renew ITINs and prepare your return in one stop; ask specifically about ITIN services.
• Self-employed: many VITA sites prepare basic Schedule C (no depreciation/inventory). Bring mileage and expense totals by category.
• Seniors 60+: TCE (often at AARP Tax-Aide sites) focuses on retirement and pension questions.
• Military families: ask about MilTax or local VITA sites on base—special rules may boost your refund.

Beat the rush: appointment tactics and the form that saves 30 minutes

Tiny scenario: You tried to walk in on April 13 and got turned away. Next time you book early, fill the intake form at home, and you’re in and out in under an hour.

• Peak times are Saturdays and the two weeks before the deadline; best bets are weekday mornings and right after a site opens.
• If the phone line is jammed, try in-person sign-up hours or a library site that books slots in batches.
• Fill out the official intake form (Form 13614-C) at home so your volunteer can dive straight into the return: IRS Form 13614-C (fillable).
• Bring proof of health coverage or your Form 1095-A if you used the Marketplace; volunteers must verify this to avoid IRS letters.
• Keep a checklist of what’s missing; most sites allow quick document drop-offs to finish your file without losing your spot.

“Tax returns help people more than we think.”
— Eunice, VITA volunteer, California
(United Ways of California, Appreciating Amazing VITA Volunteers Across California)

---

FAQs

Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?

Many sites are appointment-only, especially near the deadline. Check the IRS locator for site-specific rules and book early when possible.

Can VITA handle self-employment income?

Often yes—basic Schedule C without complex items like inventory or depreciation. Bring clean totals for income, mileage, and expenses.

What should I bring to avoid delays?

Government ID; SSN/ITIN docs; last year’s return; all W-2/1099s; 1095-A if applicable; childcare totals; direct-deposit info; and your completed intake form.

---

References