United Way Silicon Valley is partnering with the IRS to offer tax assistance at no cost to low-income workers at Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) locations throughout Silicon Valley. Workers who earned $51,000 or less in 2012 are eligible for the free tax service.
Gilroy sites include: The Adult Education Center; the Center for Employment Training; the Gavilan College library, and Gilroy One Stop. There is also a Morgan Hill site at the El Toro Youth Center. Trained IRS certified volunteers provide the tax preparation services.
There will also be several do-it-yourself and drop-off pilot sites available this year. The do-it-yourself sites provide computers and a volunteer who can answer questions for those who want to file their own taxes, but need help with the process. Drop-off sites are locations where tax information can be dropped off and volunteer tax preparers work on those returns in between their regular appointments.
“Most people will be receiving their W2s and other tax documents this month and may want to get their taxes filed right away, particularly if they are expecting a refund,” said Carole Leigh Hutton, president and CEO of United Way Silicon Valley. “We are encouraging those who qualify for the free service to wait until the VITA sites open later this month so they can get their taxes done for free. They can also get help applying for the Earned Income Tax Credit and other tax benefits, which could mean a significant refund.”
Hutton also points out how these services can mean millions for the local economy by providing a “significant boost in income for many local families, increasing their financial stability.”
Last year, VITA sites helped to bring more than $7.1 million in tax refunds to Santa Clara County, including $2.4 million from the Earned Income tax credit and $1.4 million in Child Care tax credits.
Those who qualify can find the nearest VITA site by calling the United Way’s 211 information and referral line, or by visiting www.211scc.org
