Ventura, CA, February 28, 2024 – Tax season is upon us and low- to moderate-income Ventura County residents are encouraged to take advantage of ways to put more money back in their pocket with the help of United Way of Ventura County’s (UWVC) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA).

Throughout February to April 30, 2024, trained VITA volunteer tax preparers will help working families and individuals file their state and federal tax return and access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Households earning up to $64,000 are eligible to use the free services.

On Saturday, March 16th, the VITA eBus a self- contained mobile VITA center will be in the parking lot at the Fillmore Community Service Center, 828 Ventura Street, Fillmore to provide free tax preparation for residents of Fillmore and Piru. You must schedule an appointment either by calling 211 or by self-scheduling at MyFreeTaxes.org.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a tax credit for low- to moderate-income working families and individuals. The EITC can help you reduce your tax liability and, in many cases, save you money. To qualify for the EITC, you must have worked at least part of 2023 and meet certain income requirements.

In addition to the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, the state Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) is also available to families and individuals in California. CalEITC is available for households with adjusted gross incomes of less than $30,000 regardless of qualifying children. Tax filers with an ITIN or Social Security Number are eligible for the CalEITC. California EITC requires earned income reported on a W-2 form, such as wages, salaries, and tips, and self-employment income (such as 1099 and cash-earnings). Together, these state and federal credits can put hundreds or even thousands of dollars back into the pockets of individuals and families.

If you “miss the bus” you can have your tax return prepared and e-filed VIRTUALLY by a tax preparation volunteer. Visit GetYourRefund.org/vcunitedway to upload tax documents using either a computer or smart phone.

For more information, visit VITA Program.

About the United Way of Ventura County
Since 1945, United Way of Ventura County has advanced the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. United Way identifies the root causes of poverty and works strategically to solve them by building alliances across all sectors, funding targeted programs and advocating for change. When we work together in common purpose, we LIVE UNITED. For more information about United Way of Ventura County, please visit www.vcunitedway.org.