Do you qualify to have your taxes prepared for free?

Erie FREE Taxes Program

The North East Community Foundation is proud to partner with the United Way of Erie County to once again bring the Erie FREE Taxes program to North East.

Also known as the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program or VITA, the United Way Erie FREE Taxes is an IRS-supervised program that provides free tax preparation service to eligible individuals and families in a variety of locations in Erie County. It also helps low to moderate wage earners claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a cash credit that can boost income. Those who receive the EITC credit are better able to meet basic needs, save for emergencies, pay down debt or put a down payment on a home.

Residents of North East with an income of less than $57,000 are eligible for free tax preparation services.

The filing season opened on Jan. 24 and spaces are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. Three options are available for tax preparation: drop off, traditional face-to-face or fully remote. The North East location at 4 NINE Center, 103 Clay St., is staffed by trained and IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers. Tax returns are electronically filed. With direct deposit, refunds are typically received 10 to 21 days after the return is accepted by the IRS.

Since 2007, Erie FREE Taxes has provided a value to the community of over $100 million, returned more than $88 million in federal refunds while saving taxpayers $13 million in tax preparation fees. More importantly, the program has assisted thousands of Erie County residents in becoming more financially stable.

Free tax preparation by appointment only

For North East residents — individuals and families with income under $57,000.

• Located at 4 NINE Center, 63 Clay St.
  
• To make an appointment call Erie FREE Taxes at 1-888-829-5680