VOLUNTEER INCOME
TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA)
Putting Dollars Back Into Households — And Hope Back Into Budgets
For many West Michigan families, tax season isn’t about refunds — it’s about survival. A single credit or missed deduction can mean the difference between keeping the lights on or falling behind on rent.
Through VITA, Heart of West Michigan United Way helps individuals and families file their taxes for free, ensuring they get the refunds and credits they’ve earned, without the burden of high fees or predatory lenders.
Because when people can keep more of what they earn, they can build something stronger.
VITA is more than just a service. It’s a step toward financial security.
Each year, we mobilize IRS-certified volunteers to provide:
• Free tax preparation for qualifying households
• Help accessing the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other key benefits
• Guidance and filing support in English and Spanish, in-person and online
VITA is available to:
• Individuals and families earning up to $60,000 per year
• Seniors, veterans, single parents, and ALICE households
• People who may not typically file taxes but qualify for credits like EITC or Child Tax Credit
Stabilizing Families, Strengthening Systems
Tax season can be a tipping point. And in West Michigan, it often is. Because of VITA:
Millions of dollars are returned to local households every year
Thousands of residents avoided unnecessary filing fees or payday loan advances
People accessed the credits they deserved. Often for the first time
This program doesn’t just help individuals — it strengthens financial ecosystems:
Reduces reliance on costly refund anticipation loans
Increases participation in federal benefit programs
Educates taxpayers about financial literacy and resources
Helps ALICE households keep more of what they earn and start building toward long-term goals
When those dollars stay local, families stabilize. Neighborhoods strengthen. And opportunity grows.
Become a VITA Volunteer
We train and certify volunteers each tax season. No prior experience needed, just a heart for service.
This Is More Than a Tax Return
When someone walks out with their refund and their dignity intact, when a parent realizes they qualify for thousands in credits, when a volunteer explains a system that finally makes sense. That’s VITA, and that’s how we turn a stressful season into a hopeful one.
