What is VITA?
The VITA program is a partnership between the Internal Revenue Services (IRS), community-based organizations like Cottages of Hope, and community volunteers that provides free tax preparation services to low-to moderate-income households. IRS certified volunteers receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in their community.
How do I get my tax return done at Cottages of Hope (CALL 211)?
During the tax season (Late January to April 15th) all you need to do is call 211 from a land-line phone to schedule an appointment at our site. We will be opening for tax preparation on Saturday, January 21st. Our appointments this year will be on Tuesday & Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:30 pm and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 1:30 pm. The income threshold for 2012 will be $50,000 in gross income or less.
Who is involved?
Locally Cottages of Hope has joined a coalition of organizations called Earn It, Keep It, Save It, an United Way initiative, which is a public-private partnership working to strengthen family financial stability by utilizing the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC or EIC) . We participate both locally and within the state by hosting a site in Ogden, promoting VITA throughout Weber County and by participating in Earn It, Keep It, Save It developmental activities geared toward improving the process.
Brian & Lisa Ford – New 2011 Tax Volunteers
We didn’t really know what to expect when we started volunteering with VITA, but we truly enjoyed the experience. It was fulfilling to know that we were making a difference in other people’s lives. We will definitely be VITA volunteers in the future. Through our time served, we were able to see what a blessing this program was to so many people.
2010 and 2011 Results and Impact
| Volume | 2010 | 2011 |
| Returns | 1,136 | 1,229 |
| Volunteer Hours | 1,110 | 1,089 |
| Volunteers | 36 | 32 |
| Financial Impact | 2010 | 2011 |
| Earned Income Credit | $ 563,600 | $ 650,294 |
| Total Refunds | $ 1,710,995 | $ 1,748,588 |
| Estimated Preparation Fees | $ 205,020 | $ 220,680 |
| Total Financial Impact | $ 1,916,015 | $ 1,969,268 |
