| Have your federal and state tax returns filed FREE of charge. VITA is a free income tax assistance program. IRS-certified volunteers prepare and e-file federal and state tax returns. Volunteers are trained to ensure you receive all of the credits available for which you qualify. |  |
Schedule a free tax preparation appointment.
If your household earned $59,000 or less in 2023, you may be eligible for free tax preparation. We begin scheduling appointments in January of each year.
How can I help?
United Way of Wapello County always needs volunteers for the VITA program. For more information about volunteering with VITA, visit our volunteer information page.
What do I bring to my appointment?
- Picture ID for you and your spouse if filing jointly
- Both spouses must be present to sign the required forms if filing jointly
- Social Security card or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) for you, your spouse, and all dependents
- Birth dates for you, your spouse, and all dependents
- Bank routing and account numbers for Direct Deposit (If you are due a refund, you can have it deposited directly into your bank account)
- A copy of last year's federal and state tax returns
- Wage and earnings statements: W-2, W-2G, 1098, 1099-R from all employers
- Unemployment compensation statement, if applicable: Form 1099-G
- Interest statements from banks and dividend statements from stock
- Miscellaneous income statements
- Records of expenses include mortgage interest, charitable donations, unreimbursed medical expenses, self-employment expenses, etc.
- Amounts paid for daycare that allowed you or your spouse to work or look for work
- Any other information about income and expenses
Tax Credits
Some people benefit from tax credits. Here are some examples of tax credits that can make a difference on your return:
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
American Opportunity Tax Credit
Child and Dependent Care Credit
Retirement Savings Contributions Credit
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an appointment?
Due to COVID-19, we require drop-off appointments to be made Monday-Wednesday,10 am - 5 pm. To keep our volunteers safe, we have a certified employee do an intake process scheduled for 20 minutes, though it often does not take the entire time. After your intake appointment, volunteers will be processing your taxes, and we will give you a call when your taxes have been reviewed and approved. Once you get a call that your taxes are ready, you can come into the office to sign and approve your taxes' submission to the IRS and take the paper copy of your taxes home with you. Pick-up times will be Monday-Thursday, 12 pm - 4 pm.
You can walk into our site, but we cannot guarantee an intake volunteer will be available. If, for some reason, you are not able to make it to your appointment, please call at least 24 hours in advance and reschedule. No-show appointments will not be rescheduled.
Do I qualify for free tax preparation through VITA?
You may qualify if you made $59,000 or less in the prior year. Upon calling for an appointment, additional information will be needed to determine if you are eligible.
Do I need to file?
If you or your spouse is at least 25 years of age, you should file (even if your income is very low) because you may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). EITC is a tax credit for certain people who work and have low wages. A tax credit usually means more money in your pocket. If you had taxes withheld from your income, you may want to file even if you are not required to do so.
What documents do I need to prove my health insurance?
Beginning in 2019, you are no longer required to prove health insurance on your tax return, and there are no penalties for not having coverage.
How fast will I get my refund?
You can generally expect the IRS to issue your refund in less than 21 calendar days after receiving your tax return. However, due to COVID-19 and staffing shortages, the IRS may take longer than expected when processing your taxes. Direct deposit is quick, easy, secure, and the best way to receive your refund. If you choose to receive your refund via check, your return will have to go through USPS, and additional delays may occur. Get up-to-date refund information using Where's My Refund?
Should I wait to file if I know I will owe money?
No, you can file now and pay as late as April 15th. To avoid late filing fees, you should file even if you are going to be unable to pay your taxes.
Is help available with prior year or amended tax returns?
Yes, make sure to schedule an appointment, and let us know what you have.