Volunteers in Ventura County Help Those with Low-Moderate Incomes File for Available Tax Credits Through VITA Programs

 

Ventura, Calif., February. 9, 2021– Tax season is upon us and low- to moderate-income Ventura County residents are encouraged to take advantage of ways to put more money back in their pocket with the help of United Way of Ventura County’s (UWVC) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA).

Throughout February to April 30, 2021, trained VITA volunteer tax preparers will help working families and individuals file their state and federal tax returns and access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Households earning up to $57,000 in 2020 are eligible to use the free services.

Due to COVID-19, taxes will only be prepared using either a Virtual or Drop-off process. There will be NO face-to-face appointments with a tax preparation volunteer, as all sites remain closed.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a tax credit for low- to moderate-income working families and individuals. The EITC can help you reduce your tax liability and, in many cases, save you money. To qualify for the EITC, you must have worked at least part of 2020 and meet certain income requirements. In addition to the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, the state Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) is also available to families and individuals in California. CalEITC is available for households with adjusted gross incomes of less than $30,000 regardless of qualifying children. New this year, tax filers with an ITIN are eligible for the CalEITC. California EITC requires earned income reported on a W-2 form, such as wages, salaries, and tips, and self-employment income (such as 1099 and cash-earnings).

Together, these state and federal credits can put hundreds or even thousands of dollars back into the pockets of individuals and families.

VIRTUAL – to file your return, visit GetYourRefund.org/vcunitedway. Instructions will be given to upload tax documents using either a computer or cell phone.

DROP-OFF – to file your return place your documents (listed in the attached flyer) in an envelope marked VITA and drop off at any of the following locations beginning February 1, 2021.

24/7 in the secure metal drop boxes used for County programs at:

Please, include copies only, no original documents. All tax filers both Virtual and Drop-off will be contacted via Get-Your Refund by phone, email or text.

For more information, visit https://vcunitedway.org/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita/.

About United Way of Ventura County

Since 1945, United Way of Ventura County has advanced the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. Our focus is on education, income and health, because these are the building blocks for a good quality of life. We support local services and programs that are more than just ‘stop gap’ measures, but rather solutions that help create lasting change. We invite everyone to be part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. When we work together in common purpose, we LIVE UNITED. For more information about United Way of Ventura County, visit www.vcunitedway.org.

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