Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program

Sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free income tax preparation for individuals and families across Greenwood, Abbeville, McCormick, and Saluda counties with a combined household income of $60,000 or less annually.

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In addition to preparing tax returns at no cost, United Way of the Lakelands ensures that eligible taxpayers receive the full value of available tax credits and deductions, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, Education Tax Credits, and Child and Dependent Care Credits—helping return critical dollars to local households and strengthening our communities.

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VITA sites operate annually from February through mid-April and are designed for individuals who may not have access to affordable tax preparation services. Through a growing coalition of community partners—including faith-based, public, and private organizations—United Way of the Lakelands is expanding access to these services and advancing financial stability across the region.

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To schedule your FREE tax preparation appointment, contact us at info@uwlakelands.org 

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Required Documents for Your Appointment

To ensure timely and accurate completion of your tax return, please bring all required documents. Missing documentation may delay processing.

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• Valid photo ID for taxpayer and spouse

• Original Social Security or Medicare cards for all individuals listed on the return, or ITIN documentation (if applicable)

• Birth dates for all individuals listed on the return

• Any IRS correspondence, including Child Tax Credit and stimulus payment letters

• All wage and income statements (W-2s, Social Security/SSI, pensions, annuities, unemployment, etc.)

• Interest and dividend statements (Forms 1099)

• Copy of prior year’s federal and state tax returns (if available)

• Documentation for dependents claimed by multiple taxpayers (e.g., Form 8332, Form 2120, or similar)

• Child care provider information (name, address, and Tax ID or Social Security Number) and total amount paid

• Real estate tax payment receipts (if applicable)

• Itemized deduction documentation and supporting receipts (if applicable)

• Tuition statements and financial aid or student loan documentation (if applicable)

• Bank account and routing information for direct deposit (e.g., voided check)

• Health insurance forms (Forms 1095-A, 1095-B, or 1095-C)

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Become a VITA Volunteer – United Way of the Lakelands

Volunteers are the heart of the VITA program and the reason it continues to make a meaningful impact across Greenwood, Abbeville, McCormick, and Saluda counties.

No prior experience is required. All volunteers receive free training and become IRS-certified tax preparers.

We are currently seeking volunteers for the following roles:

• Volunteer Tax Preparers
  Assist individuals and families in preparing accurate tax returns while ensuring they receive all eligible credits and deductions.

• Volunteer Greeters/Screeners
  Welcome participants, help organize paperwork, and ensure individuals are prepared for their appointment.

• Volunteer Site Coordinators
  Support day-to-day site operations, assist volunteers, and help maintain quality and efficiency at VITA locations.
   

What You’ll Gain as a VITA Volunteer

• Professional tax preparation and software training

• Flexible scheduling, including daytime, evening, and weekend opportunities

• Hands-on experience working directly with individuals and families

• The opportunity to build a valuable, marketable skill set
   

Why It Matters

As a VITA volunteer, you play a direct role in strengthening financial stability across the Lakelands. Your time and expertise help individuals and families access the refunds and credits they’ve earned—often making a meaningful difference in their ability to cover essentials, reduce debt, or plan for the future.

You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with others in the community who are committed to making a difference.

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IRS certification may qualify for continuing education credits for accounting and financial professionals and provides valuable real-world experience for students and those exploring careers in business or finance.

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Ready to get involved? Volunteer here.