provided to The Santiva Chronicle
FISH of SANCAP will again host the United Way Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every other Friday from Feb. 7 to April 18 at the Sanibel Public Library, 770 Dunlop Rd.
The program offers free tax preparation assistance for those earning a household income of $66,000 a year or less. Appointments are required and can be made online here or by calling the United Way at 211 or 239-433-3900.
VITA volunteers are trained to assist clients with tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit, child tax credits, childcare credits, and education credits for maximum refunds.
VITA cannot process returns with rental income, self-employment income at a loss, expenses exceeding $35,000, or with employees. Anyone with questions about their eligibility can contact the United Way.
The following items are needed to prepare returns:
• Valid photo ID for everyone who is filing
• Original social security card, Medicare card, or ITIN card for everyone listed on the return
• Birth dates for everyone on the return
• All wage and earnings statements – W-2, 1099 forms, social security income, pensions, unemployment compensation
• Copy of last year’s federal and state returns, if available
• Documentation for dependent exemptions – Form 8332 or Form 2120
• Childcare provider name, federal ID or social security number, address, and amount paid
• Affordable Health Care Statements – Forms 1095-A, B, or C
• Real estate tax receipts, if applicable
• Bank account details for direct deposit
For those itemizing deductions, bring a detailed summary with supporting receipts. Anyone paying for tuition should include tuition receipts, financial aid statements, and student loan details.
“With all the changes to tax rules, it’s so hard to keep up,” an island resident said. “Last year, I couldn’t even think about doing my taxes with everything else going on with my home repairs.
“The VITA volunteers made the process simple and painless, and I was on my way to other things in no time,” the resident said. “I can’t wait to have them prepare my taxes again this year—this is such a useful service. I hope everyone takes advantage of this opportunity.”
FISH is proud to partner with United Way to make this program possible, ensuring all have access to critical tax preparation services, particularly during these challenging times of recovery and rebuilding.
To learn more about FISH programs and services, contact Executive Director Maria Espinoza at 239-472-4775.
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