The Urban League of Greater Chattanooga is marking a record-setting year for the area Volunteer Income Tax Assistance initiative. This year, the organization completed over 13,500 VITA returns for individuals throughout the area, saving taxpayers a collective amount of $4,392,050.
The program assists individuals earning $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities, senior citizens and limited English speaking taxpayers who need help preparing tax returns.
“This was a banner year for our VITA efforts,” said Warren E.
Logan, president and CEO of Urban League. “Over 5,000 VITA returns were completed for Chattanooga residents this year. In addition, we were able to extend our services to thousands of residents in Cleveland, South Pittsburg and Whitwell through valuable community partnerships.”
Urban League partnered with the cities of Chattanooga, Cleveland, South Pittsburg and Whitwell, in addition to SunTrust Bank, University of Tennessee Agriculture Extension, 211 United Way and the Internal Revenue Service.
“Each year, we are able to provide assistance to residents who may have difficulty navigating the complicated tax preparation process,” said Val Palmer, VITA program coordinator of Urban League. “None of this would be possible without our vital community partnerships and our dedicated volunteers, who have been certified by the IRS to assist in our efforts.”
Urban League is seeking additional volunteers to help with tax preparation for next year. Previous tax experience is not necessary. Training for volunteers will begin this fall.
For more information about volunteering next year, call Urban League at 423-756-1762.