During the 2015 tax season, United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra (UWNNS) helped to coordinate the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in Elko, Churchill, Mineral, Humboldt and Washoe Counties, as well as Carson City. VITA volunteers, in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service, provided tax preparation assistance for taxpayers.
They also helped Nevadans locate free online resources at Intuit and MyFreeTaxes.com.
VITA helped low to moderate-income individuals and families complete nearly 1,500 tax returns at no charge, saving Nevadans more than $315,000 in tax preparation fees. These returns equaled $1,835,799 in tax refunds. As part of the program, certified tax-preparation volunteers helped individuals and families determine their Earned Tax Credit (EITC) eligibility as well as other tax credits including Child Tax Credits among others.
This year’s total EITC refunds were nearly $500,000 and Child Tax Credits amounted to more than $600,00.
“At United Way, we know that family stability is an important step for building a successful future,” said Karen Barsell, chief executive officer and president of UWNNS. “Linking Nevadans to free tax preparation is an important service for families in need. This program and the wonderful volunteers have helped hundreds of northern Nevadans receive tax refunds that are often used for basic needs including housing and food.”