FISH, United Way to offer free tax preparation help
FISH of Sanibel-Captiva will host the United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or VITA program, which provides free tax preparation assistance. Residents who earn a household income of $66,000 or less can have their federal tax returns prepared, e-filed and direct deposited at no cost.
Every other Friday from Feb. 7 through April 18, VITA will offer tax preparation service from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. Appointments are required.
The IRS-certified United Way volunteers are trained to assist with tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credits, Childcare Credits and Education Credits. VITA can only handle simple returns; it cannot process returns that involve rental income or self-employment income at a loss, with expenses that exceed $35,000 or with employees.
Tax returns cannot be completed without the following:
– Valid picture ID for all individuals filing.
– Original Social Security or Medicare cards (or ITIN cards) for all individuals listed on the return.
– Birth dates for everyone on the return.
– All wage and earnings statements, such as W-2, 1099 forms, Social Security Income, pensions and unemployment compensation.
– A copy of last year’s federal and state tax returns, if available.
– Documentation for dependent exemptions, such as Form 8332 or Form 2120.
– Childcare provider information, including their name, Federal ID or Social Security Number, and address, as well as the amount paid.
– Affordable Health Care Statements, such as Forms 1095-A, B or C.
– Real estate tax receipts, if applicable.
– Bank account details for direct deposit (a voided check or account details).
Those itemizing deductions will need to bring a detailed summary of deductions with supporting receipts. Students or individuals paying for tuition should include tuition receipts, financial aid statements and student loan details.
To schedule an appointment, visit https://www.unitedwaylee.org/freetaxprep/; interested individuals may also dial 211 or call 239-433-3900. People can also call to see if they qualify for the service.