Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program gears up

Tax season is here and the 2012 Larimer County Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is standing by to help.

Approximately 150 IRS-trained and certified volunteers at seven locations in Larimer County are providing free tax assistance to eligible individuals if they are:

• Age 59 or under, with income up to $57,000;
• 60 years or older, with routine tax return;
• Home bound or have special needs.

VITA sites are open to help individuals and families prepare and file their income tax returns free of charge. Volunteers will make sure those who are eligible receive the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit which will keep more refund dollars in the pockets of those who need it most. A Free File service is also available for eligible residents to prepare and file their tax returns online.

“During these difficult economic times, it is especially important for people to use this tax service,” explained Loveland VITA site coordinator Harry Love. “We want to make sure eligible families receive all available tax credits and the full amount of their refunds. The extra dollars saved by using this free service could be used to start an emergency savings fund or pay down debt.”

For complete information about eligibility and Larimer County VITA sites, call 2-1-1 or visit makechangenoco.com.