Through a partnership between United Way’s 2-1-1 program and Savannah-Chatham Asset Development Coalition, free tax preparation will be offered at several IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites throughout the Coastal Empire. These free tax sites utilize trained volunteer tax preparers and offer electronic filing.

E-filing at one of these VITA sites provides fast refunds, in as soon as 5-7 business days, and saves low-income tax payers from paying any filing fees.

In addition to free tax preparation, these tax sites educate and encourage eligible working families to apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credits that are available. EITC are available to low-income working families and individuals that earned less than $41,000 last year and meet other IRS guidelines. EITC can be worth up to $4,700 this year, which could result in receiving a larger refund or paying less federal tax.

United Way 2-1-1 is connecting people to these local VITA sites. To find a site near you, simply dial 2-1-1, 24 hours a day 7 days a week or contact the Neighborhood Improvement Association at 447-5577.

Thanks to the Herschel V. Jenkins Trust Fund and other income, 100 percent of every gift goes to health and human service agencies and programs that serve those in need.

For further information, please visit www.uwce.org.

- submitted