Free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance — VITA — is again available in Hamilton and Wright counties this year, according to Barb Wollan of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

This service is possible thanks to the efforts of dedicated local volunteers, and begins in early February.

“We’re also continuing the self-preparation option, and providing assistance to clients who choose to prepare their own returns,” Wollan said. As a result, two VITA options are available locally: an in-person appointment, and the do-it-yourself option.

Do-It-Yourself: Taxpayers with incomes below about $80,000 can do their own federal and state tax returns free online at a link provided by the local VITA site, while turning to the VITA program for help in choosing the right filing status and claiming the credits they are eligible for. That help will be available by phone and email. To get started, send an email to CentralIowaVITA@gmail.com no sooner than January 23 and you will receive a response with instructions.

Preparation by Volunteers: Those who prefer to have their tax return prepared by IRS-certified volunteers must make an appointment with their local site. Before that appointment they must complete information worksheets. Clients can pick up copies of the forms at the Hamilton or Wright county extension offices — 311 Bank Street in Webster City or 2302 Madison Avenue in Clarion. Or they can arrive 20 minutes early to their appointment and fill out the forms on-site.

Many clients will come for about an hour-long appointment and leave with their completed tax return. Others will come for two separate 20-minute appointments: one to do an intake interview and collect their paperwork, and the second to review their return and sign it.

Wollan particularly encourages families who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) to take advantage of the free tax preparation. By avoiding tax and loan fees, these families can put 100% of those funds to use in ways that build financial security and help them reach additional financial goals.

Eligibility: For the “do-it-yourself” option, the only eligibility rule is that income must be below about $80,000. Taxpayers who wish to have taxes prepared for them by a volunteer must fit certain criteria, since there are some tax issues the IRS does not allow volunteers to address. Most taxpayers with income reported on W-2 or 1099 forms can have their returns done by the volunteers. Volunteers do not prepare returns with farm or rental income, or in certain other complex situations. Taxpayers with low to moderate incomes are eligible — single individuals up to $40,000; families with one child up to $50,000, and families with two or more children up to $67,000.

Appointments required: In Webster City, call the tax appointment hotline after January 21: 515-209-5131. In Ellsworth, call the public library: 515-836-4852.

Appointments are also available in Clarion and Belmond; call Wright County Extension at 515-532-3453.

Local VITA efforts are supported by ISU Extension and by funding through the Iowa Center for Economic Success.