The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may change how the process works this year, but local volunteers are still preparing to provide free tax assistance and preparation for thousands of low- and moderate-income individuals or those with disabilities in the Chattanooga area over the next three months.
The Urban League of Greater Chattanooga and its community partners are launching the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program Friday at a dozen area sites to provide free assistance for those filling out their 2020 tax returns. The program is open to individuals and households whose incomes were less than $58,000 last year or to seniors, disabled persons, United Way members or those with limited English speaking skills.
“The VITA program is critical for individuals and families who would otherwise face significant difficulties navigating the tax process,” said Candy Johnson, the president and CEO of Chattanooga’s Urban League chapter. “We know tax preparation can be very confusing to navigate, particularly for our disadvantaged residents.”
What to bring
* Your 2019 tax return* Photo ID or driver’s license for each taxpayer, Social Security cards or ITIN cards for everyone on your return.* W-2 forms and other income documentation* IRS Form 1095-A if health insurance is purchased through the Marketplace Exchange* Checkbook or bank account number if you want refund directly deposited to your bank account.
The Urban League has been training hundreds of volunteers since last November for the annual tax assistance program, which begins next week at a dozen sites across Southeast Tennessee. Due to the pandemic, those seeking tax help must either make an advance appointment or drop off their tax information, stay in their cars as they drop off forms and return after the volunteer has completed their tax returns. Masks also must be worn by participants in the program when dropping off and picking up all tax forms.