2011-12-29_Brief VITA description_FINAL

Dial 2-1-1 to learn about free tax preparation Free tax preparation helps families claim EITC, increase financial stability Working families who earned up to $50,000 in 2011 are eligible for free tax preparation services to ensure they get the tax refunds and credits they deserve, including the new Connecticut Earned Income Tax Credit (CT-EITC).

As part of its commitment to helping working families become more financially stable, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut is proud to support Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites in partnership with the Hartford Asset Building Collaborative (managed by Co-opportunity, Inc.), the New Britain Asset Building Coalition (managed by HRA of New Britain), the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, the Walmart Foundation, and Comcast Corporation. This service is supported by contributions to United Way Community Investment through the United Way Community Campaign.

IRS-trained volunteers will help low- to moderate-income individuals and families prepare and electronically file their state and federal income tax forms at no charge and will help them determine whether they qualify for tax credits and refunds, including the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the new Connecticut Earned Income Tax Credit (CT-EITC).

The federal EITC is a tax credit available to low-income individuals and families that earned up to $49,078 depending on family size, last year. The average federal EITC last year was $2,240.

This past year, Connecticut passed legislation that created a state CT-EITC. This is the first year the credit is available. This means individuals and families who qualify for the federal EITC will receive an additional tax credit worth 30 percent of the federal EITC. Sites are located in several communities including Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, Enfield, New Britain, Willimantic, Putnam and Danielson. Tax filers at the free sites can have their refund in 7 to 10 days via direct deposit or on a prepaid debit card.

VITA sites also offer filers information on how to save and grow their money for the future. At select sites, students and their parents can get help to complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) to help pay for college. At some centers, you can learn more about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly food stamps, and Women, Infants and Children (WIC).

VITA sites will be open at convenient times throughout the week, including evenings and weekends.

Free tax assistance is available in Spanish and Polish at select sites.

To locate a VITA site or to schedule an appointment, dial 2-1-1. United Way 2-1-1 is a free, multilingual information and referral hotline, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.