Do you like helping people? Then the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program sponsored by Northern Santa Barbara County United Way in Santa Maria and Lompoc may be just what you are looking for.
The VITA Program helps those with low-to-moderate incomes. Trained Volunteer Tax Assistants explain the many special credits and deductions and how people may claim them on their tax returns. Volunteers will help individuals complete and electronically file their returns - all for FREE!
Who are these volunteers? People just like you - college students, law students, homemakers, members of volunteer or community organizations, and businessmen and women. You name it. Volunteer Tax Assistants receive free instruction and all training and certification materials necessary to prepare basic income tax returns. Training and certification will begin on January 6th, 2010 or individuals can complete an online course. Now is the time to sign up!
Volunteers are also needed to help in other ways. Some volunteers can help organize tax sites, welcome and direct clients, and interview clients. If you have a skill and would like to help, we can find a way to involve you in the program.
Why volunteer? To help ensure that Northern Santa Barbara County working families and individuals are filing for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child/Dependent Tax Credit they have earned that can help them receive a cash refund in excess of $5,000 and to also help them save hundreds of dollars in commercial tax fees and predatory "rapid refund" loans (RALs).
The United Way wants you to support and join one of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites that provide low income families and individuals all over North County making a household income of less than $49,000 FREE tax preparation!
If you or your organization wants to get involved and would like more information about the VITA Program, contact Sandy Soria at 805-922-0329 x105 or visit us at www.nsbuw.com.