United Way's free tax prep service (VITA)

United Way of Hancock County's free income tax preparation service, called VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), is available to anyone who lives OR works in Hancock County. To qualify, an individual or family's combined annual household income must be $64,000 or less.

This IRS program is run by trained volunteers offering free tax preparation and electronic filing for state and federal returns. No city taxes will be prepared. Appointments are offered at 50 North and the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library.

Appointments & Scheduling

Our appointment scheduler begins in January 2025, with the first VITA appointments beginning in mid-February.

Those looking for a free self-filing option are encouraged to visit www.myfreetaxes.com. This United Way-sponsored program is offered in partnership with the IRS for households that earn under $79,000 annually. The website is self-guided, with prompts to help taxpayers complete their state and federal filings.

Necessary Items for your Appointment

It is highly important that you bring the following documents to your VITA appointment. Failure to do so may result in your appointment being canceled, even if you have utilized the service in the past.

Items to bring to your appointment, per the IRS:

  • Valid photo ID
  • Social Security cards for you, your spouse and any dependents
  • Birth dates for you, your spouse and any dependents
  • Wage and earning statements (Forms W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-Misc) from ALL employers from 2023
  • Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)
  • A copy of last year's state and federal returns
  • Forms 1095-A, B and C health coverage statements OR health insurance exemption certificate
  • Proof of foreign status (if applicable)
  • Total paid for childcare provider and the provider's tax identifying number, such as their Social Security number or business Employer Identification Number
  • Copies of income transcripts from IRS and state (if applicable)
  • Bank account routing number or a blank check (for direct deposit of tax return)

Married couples filing a joint tax return must both be present to sign the required forms.

VITA's Impact

The 2023 VITA season made over $1 million in impact to community members.

Nearly 920 state and federal returns were filed by a group of 18 trained volunteers. Over $1 million was returned to the local economy through tax refunds and earned income credits.