VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE
United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free, reliable tax help to eligible individuals, ensuring that more people can confidently navigate tax season. Powered by our dedicated, IRS-certified volunteers, VITA simplifies the tax filing process and helps individuals and families claim all eligible credits and deductions. This puts more money back into their pockets, giving them the freedom to focus on what matters most.
Schedule Your Free Tax Prep Appointment
You may qualify for free tax services through our VITA program if your household income is $68,000 or less. We can help you complete your income tax return and apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a refundable federal income tax credit. U.S. citizenship is not required, but you must file a tax return to claim your credit.
What to bring to your appointment:
Please note: If you’re married and filing jointly, both adults must be present at the appointment to sign the tax return.
BRING THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS WITH YOU:
Social Security card for each family member and picture ID for adults
W-2 form for all jobs worked the previous year
1099 forms (i.e., 1099 SSA, 1099 R, 1099 INT, 1099 G) for other income, including unemployment
All forms 1095, Health Insurance Statements
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) letter
Copy of last year’s tax return (if available)
Last year’s heating bills
Proof of rent or mortgage and property tax payments
Name and address of all landlords
Childcare provider’s name, address, and federal tax ID number
Blank, voided check (to set up direct deposit of your refund)
Any other tax-related letters or documents you’ve received, including letters from the IRS
“My parents dreaded tax time every year. This year I set up the appointment for them through VITA, which was super easy through 211, and met my parents at the tax site to help them the day of. Turns out I probably didn’t even need to go, the volunteers there were very helpful about signing in and getting them situated. My parents left beaming and happy, that not only did they not have to drop $300, they were also treated like equals. It was a 1000/10 experience for them and they will be returning next year.”
— B.C., Taxpayer
File Online with My Free Taxes
MyFreeTaxes, provided by United Way in partnership with the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, offers a free, easy, and secure way for individuals to prepare and file their own tax returns. Users can choose to self-file online using our user-friendly platform at myfreetaxes.org. Our self-preparation software is completely free and connects users to the best filing option based on their income.
Become a Volunteer
Make a real difference in your community this tax season by becoming a VITA volunteer! United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is seeking passionate individuals who want to help families and individuals across West Michigan access the tax credits and refunds they’ve earned. By providing free, reliable tax preparation services, you’ll play a vital role in helping families achieve financial stability.
No prior experience is needed
Flexible training options—either in-person or self-study (2–16 hours depending on experience/role)
3–4 hours per week commitment from mid-January to mid-April.
