About the VITA Program
The goal of the VITA program is to provide FREE tax preparation to underserved individuals in the community, especially low-income workers, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. It is a primary objective to help eligible taxpayers receive the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) to improve their financial stability. VITA also gives financial information and guidance to clients who are struggling to make ends meet. The EITC refund and service referrals help secure families against financial hardship and potential poverty. Through our efforts, Capital Area United Way (CAUW) will ensure income stability for families, and strengthen the Capital Area community.
With numerous community partnerships, CAUW offers clients the opportunity to become banked, increase assets, and increase financial health through free tax preparation services and deepened service delivery at our VITA locations. In 2017, we will partner with organizations to offer pro bono legal advice, financial checkups, opportunities for Individual Development Account enrollment, retirement savings through myRA and other incentivized tax-time savings programs, and referrals to needed community services at various VITA locations throughout the 10-parish region.
VITA’s Community Impact
In CAUW’s 10 parish region, roughly 21% of the population lives below 125% of the federal poverty threshold, many of whom qualify for special refunds and credits like the EITC and Child Tax Credit. The average refund VITA helped clients secure in 2016 was $1,686, with a total of $8.3 million refunds entering back into the local 10 parish region. 6,241 accepted tax returns were filed by VITA volunteers. VITA clients were offered opportunities to become banked, increase assets, and increase financial health. 177 VITA volunteers served in 2016; they contributed more than 6,000 hours of service to low-to-moderate income individuals and families in our community.
Special thanks to our partners:
Entergy, Capital One, City of Baton Rouge, Catholic Charities, East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, Red River Bank, Bank on Baton Rouge, Pelican State Credit Union
To learn more or get your taxes done for free, visit:
For a printable version of all of our Super Resources at Super Tax Day, click here
Volunteering with VITA
Volunteering at a VITA site is a very rewarding opportunity and offers a unique way to strengthen your community. No prior experience is necessary. VITA offers flexible hours and training; all you need is a desire to help families in your community. For more information, contact us at vita@cauw.org.
Questions about VITA? Frequently Asked Questions
For information on getting your taxes done, or to learn ways to partner with us in the 10 parish region, contact us at vita@cauw.org
Don't want to wait for an appointment?
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Links to Other Tax Related Information and Announcements
NCLC / CFA revised Tax Time Kick Off: Delays & Risks Await Many Taxpayers This Year
Many People in Rural America Qualify for Earned Income Tax Credit
