Free Tax Prep Program Announced for Rhode Island Residents
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program helps working families and individuals
Rhode Island (March 15, 2022) – With the 2022 tax filing season coming to a close on April 18, United Way of Rhode Island, in partnership with Citizens, would like to remind residents they may be eligible to have their federal and state income taxes prepared and filed for free through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Citizens generously supports the program with a $30,000 contribution, as well as colleague volunteering.
“Each year, this program plays an important role in creating financial stability by helping working households receive the money they’re due in tax refunds and credits,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “And it is thanks to partners like Citizens and their continued support that our neighbors are able to access such an important resource.”
The free tax preparation program is available to individuals and families who earn $57,414 or less annually and meet program criteria. Taxes are prepared by IRS-certified volunteers who assist low- to moderate-income working residents in securing the tax credits and refunds they deserve. Both United Way of Rhode Island and Citizens share a common goal of encouraging financial stability and recognize the importance of programs like VITA to families and individuals.
VITA has grown over the years, thanks in part to the support of Citizens. In 2021, local VITA volunteers filed more that 19,000 tax returns that returned more than $19 million to working Rhode Islanders in the form of tax credits and tax refunds. Citizens supports 25 VITA sites across the state.
“The VITA program has provided thousands of Rhode Island residents with free tax preparation assistance, helping put more financial resources back into the hands of local families,” said Barbara Cottam, Rhode Island market executive, Citizens. “Tax refunds and credits secured through this program can kickstart savings and become the foundation for a healthier financial future.”
Some important changes individuals will see this year include:
- An expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for those without a child to claim; the expansion increases the age range to allow workers age 65+ and those as young as age 19 to claim this support for low-income working people.
- The Child Tax Credit was increased, and many people raising children received advance payments totaling up to half of the full credit. Those who got the advance payments or who missed out on them can file a tax return to claim the full amount for which they are eligible.
- A change to the Dependent Care Tax Credit can mean as much as $8,000 for those who paid for childcare or home care that allowed them to work or look for work.
Rhode Islanders are encouraged to call 211 for information about site locations, making an appointment, eligibility, and more. VITA sites offer services in English and Spanish, with volunteers especially knowledgeable in the important Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC), which lessen tax burden and can lead to a larger refund.
United Way Rhode Island also encourages self-filers with internet access and a household income up to $73,000 to take advantage of www.MyFreeTaxes.com. This provides access to filing software at no cost and a toll-free number to call, and a chat line for tax questions. It is sponsored by United Way Worldwide and H & R Block.
The VITA program is a partnership with United Way of Rhode Island, Citizens, the IRS and AARP Foundation Tax Aide.