The Bucks County Opportunity Council offers free income tax preparation assistance to low income residents through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, VITA.
Trained and certified volunteers are available Feb. 1-April 15 in five locations throughout the county: Bristol, Warminster, Quakertown, Newtown and Doylestown. Office hours at each location vary, but include Saturday daytimes and weekday evenings. Individuals and families with a combined income of $56,000 or less are eligible for the program.
BCOC volunteers have helped more than 12,400 families save more than $23.5 million in refunds, tax credits and fees in the last 15 years. Money saved stays in the local economy as low income families generally spend returns on essentials such as food, clothing and school supplies, for example. The program supports BCOC’s overall mission to reduce poverty and partner with the community to promote economic self-sufficiency. Many who are helped continue to work with BCOC’s other services that encourage financial literacy and long-term planning.
Millions of tax dollars in tax credits go unclaimed each year because many people don’t know about them or don’t know how to apply for them. According to the IRS, many individuals qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), but cannot afford professional tax assistance to help them file their taxes correctly.
More than 50 volunteers make this program possible through BCOC. Tax preparers receive training and need to pass an exam to be certified. Other volunteers assist in support roles such as greeting visitors and scheduling. This program is sponsored by the IRS and supported locally by Bucks County Foundation, First National Bank & Trust Co. of Newtown, and BB&T.
Clients are served on a first-come, first-served basis. For locations and hours, and a list of documents to bring to the appointment, visit bcoc.org. To volunteer, contact Eileen Albillar at 215-345-8175 or ealbillar@bcoc.org.
