VITA Program Returns for Another Season
VITA Appointments are Available for Lackawanna and Wayne County Residents
Scranton, PA (25-February-2021) – As everything seems to be, the VITA Program will look a little different for the 2021 tax filing season. “We are thrilled this free tax program is able to safely proceed in a time that vulnerable residents of Lackawanna and Wayne County need it most due to this financially challenging 2020,” said Gary Drapek, President & CEO of United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties.
Tax drop-off appointments will be the common practice this year to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of all clients, volunteers and staff members. Filers can schedule an appointment by dialing 2-1-1 or 866.662.8887 and speaking to an agent. They can also visit uwlc.net and book a drop-off appointment at their own convenience.
Masks will be required for clients, volunteers and staff to wear at all times. Social distancing will be enforced and plastic barriers will be used for any potential communication on site. Keyser Valley Community Center, Scranton will be the primary location for all tax drop-offs and pick-ups from March 2nd to April 9th, while the alternate sites of Abington Fire Hall, Clarks Summit (March 17th-18th) and Trinity Episcopal Church, Carbondale (March 29th) will be host for older adults and those who are unable to safely utilize the Keyser Valley Location. Households that earned $57,000 or less in 2020 are eligible to take advantage of this free tax service.
United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties welcome back a team of IRS Certified volunteers as well as a band of accounting student interns from Penn State Scranton to assist all eligible filers for this tax season.
Another option available to Lackawanna and Wayne County residents is myfreetaxes.com. This website allows the user to file their own taxes in the comfort and safety of their home. Powered by TaxSlayer in partnership with the IRS VITA Program, this service includes federal and unlimited state returns for free while avoiding restrictive eligibility criteria. There is no age or geographic limitations and targets filers who generally earn around $57,000 or less, however filers with incomes over this threshold will not be blocked from using this software and will not be charged any fees. Each taxpayer can either chose to file their return on their own or with a virtual assistant to guide them through the process.
For further comment on all other matters, call the Barry Snyder, Director of Community Outreach, United Way at (570) 343-1267 x237.
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