From the United Way of Acadiana
When people are financially stable, they can make financial decisions that benefit themselves and their families, which, in turn, benefits the community.
Being financially stable also puts families in a better position to handle crisis – job loss, illness or other unforeseen expenses.
The VITA program is just one way United Way of Acadiana is creating financial stability. In the last two years, this program put approximately $9 million back in the hands of hardworking families through free tax preparation assistance. During that period, volunteers assisted more than 5,400 Acadiana residents in filing their taxes, helping them claim approximately $2 million each year of the nearly $30 million in Earned Income Tax Credit that goes unclaimed annually. IRS-Certified Tax Preparers are ready to help you at the following locations –some sites open as early as Jan. 27:
If you work and have household income below $54,000 in 2016, you may be eligible for free tax preparation services and a quick refund.
You may also qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, which could mean thousands for your family. To qualify for Earned Income Tax Credit, your Tax Year Earned Income and Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) must each be less than:
— $48,340: With 3 or more qualifying children.
— $53,930: If married, filing jointly.
— $45,007: With 2 qualifying children.
— $50,597: If married, filing jointly.
— $39,617: With 1 qualifying child.
— $45,207: If married, filing jointly.
— $15,010: With no qualifying children.
— $20,600: If married, filing jointly.
Additionally, if you make less than $62,000, you can file for free at MyFreeTaxes.com. It’s easy, safe, secure and free. Some fees apply for those making more than $62,000.
What to bring:
— Photo ID and original Social Security Card or ITIN.
— All W2s.
— Any other tax-related documents.
Where and When
VITA sites
IRS-Certified Tax Preparers are ready to help you at the following locations:
Acadia Parish
Assist Agency: 11 North Parkerson Crowley, LA 70526, 337-788-7550, ext. 138
Opening day: Jan. 27th
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. until noon and 1:30-3 p.m.
Lafayette Parish
Acadiana High School: 315 Rue de Belier Lafayette, LA 70506, 337-521-7411 (dial 6 and ext. 16950)
SMILE/Lafayette: 501 St. John St. Lafayette, LA 70501, 337-234-3272, ext. 219
Hours (Appointment only): Monday through Thursday from 2-4 p.m.
Lafayette Library Main Branch: 301, Congress St., Lafayette, LA 70501, 337-706-1192 (appointment only)
St. Landry Parish
The Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Institute: 1209 Diesi St. Opelousas, LA 70570, 337-943-2410
Super tax days
Acadiana High School, February 24, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (call for appointment)
Northside High School, 301 Duran St., Lafayette, LA 70501, Feb. 17, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information, contact Jan Risher at 337-230-8214 or visit unitedwayofacadiana.org/vita.