The Urban League of Greater Chattanooga is resuming the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program that provides free tax assistance for residents who meet income residency requirements.

The program was temporarily suspended in an effort to limit face-to-face interaction amid COVID-19 concerns.

Taxpayers are now able to drop off documents at one of two sites to be completed by volunteers and returned to them. Taxpayers must have an appointment, which may be scheduled by phone.

The new process will begin Thursday. Appointments are available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. through Tuesday, June 16.

For many in the greater Chattanooga area, the tax preparation cost and process can be a burden. Through VITA, the Urban League and volunteers are able to assist qualified citizens and help them navigate the process at no charge. Last year, Urban League completed over 15,000 VITA returns for individuals throughout the area, saving taxpayers a collective amount of $5,176,965.

There are two locations open for tax document drop-offs. Taxpayers must call one of two locations to schedule a drop-off. Please leave your name and phone number and ensure your voicemail is not full. The Urban League must be able to leave a message for you. Please speak slowly and clearly. Once you have your dropoff time confirmed, please heed the following instructions and ensure you have all of the following items listed below. When you arrive, officials will check your information and ask any necessary questions. They will complete the filing and call you to schedule a pick-up appointment. They plan to complete your filing within two days. Taxpayers dropping off documents on Thursday will receive a call the following week.

Chattanooga
(423) 805-2926
Urban League of Greater Chattanooga
730 East M.L. King Blvd. 
Chattanooga, TN 37403 

Marion County and Surrounding Areas
(423) 580-0042 (South Pittsburg)
Old National Guard Armory
107 E. 10th Street
South Pittsburg, TN 37380

You must park in the back parking lot and stay in your car. No exceptions.

How does it work?
You will arrive at the drop-off location with the items listed below. We will check your information and ask any necessary questions. This will take 20-25 minutes. We will then complete the F13614-C – Intake Sheet required by the IRS and conduct an interview over the phone. We will finalize  your documents and call you to pick them up.

Who should come to the drop-off site?
Only the primary taxpayer and if necessary, your spouse, should be present. No friends or other family members should be with you. The same person dropping off tax documents must pick them up. If you’re filing a joint return, both the taxpayer and the spouse must be present to sign e-file forms. 

What days are the drop-offs?
Drop-offs are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1p.m. You must have an appointment. Those without an appointment will be asked to schedule an appointment and return at the appropriate time.

What should I bring?
You must bring the following items:
? Your cell phone
? A pen for your personal use
? Your driver’s license and if applicable, your spouse’s driver’s license
? Your social security card and the social security cards of anyone listed on return
? Your tax documents including W2s, 1099-Rs, social security statements, etc.
? Banking information including a voided copy of a check or deposit slip showing a routing number
if you want a direct deposit