United Way of Hernando County
MEDIA RELEASE
DATE: January 10, 2025
Contact:
Angie B. Walasek, CEO Angie@UnitedWayHernando.org
Justine Peppe, CID Impact@UnitedWayHernando.org
United Way’s FREE Tax Preparation Service
Appointments Are Now Being Scheduled
Spring Hill, FL – January 10, 2025 – United Way of Hernando County is pleased to announce that the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is now accepting appointments for the upcoming tax season. This invaluable service provides free tax preparation assistance to low to moderate-income individuals and families, ensuring they receive the credits and refunds they deserve. VITA is a financial stability initiative and free tax preparation service, providing filing assistance to qualified residents who:
• Have a low-to-moderate income (generally, $67,000 and below)
• Have no rental property or farm income
• Have a small Schedule C-EZ (Expenses $35,000 or less and no net loss)
• Have picture ID
• Have Social Security Card(s) or statement from Social Security Office for all listed on Return
• Have (if applicable) Form 1095-A (Health Insurance Statement)
• Have a copy of previous year’s tax return (if applicable)
The VITA program is staffed by trained volunteers who are certified by the IRS. They are equipped to assist with various tax situations, including filing for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and other tax benefits. The service is available to households earning $67,000 or less, individuals with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers.
“We understand that tax season can be stressful, especially for those who may not have the resources to seek professional filing,” stated United Way’s Executive Director/CEO, Angie B. Walasek. She shared, “Our VITA program is here to alleviate that stress and provide our community with the support they need to file their taxes confidently. All VITA Volunteers are trained and certified by the IRS, and last year alone, served 1,871 families, saving local residents over $800,000!”
Hernando VITA Sites are open from February 4th through April 15th. United Way of Hernando County encourages residents to take advantage of this free service. Appointments are limited, so early booking is recommended. Residents interested in this FREE tax preparation service at the Spring Hill Library, Main Brooksville Library, or United Way Office can easily book an appointment online by visiting www.UnitedWayHernando.org/VITA. For appointments at the High Point and Brookridge Clubhouses, call 352-741-1476.
If assistance is needed for online scheduling, residents can call 352-688-8502 and a United Way representative will be happy to assist.
This financial stability initiative is proudly facilitated by United Way of Hernando County, and supported by the IRS, Hernando County Libraries, High Point, Brookridge, HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital, and Grow Financial Federal Credit Union. Dial 2-1-1 for more information on VITA or visit www.UnitedWayHernando.org/VITA.
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