CAS needs tax volunteers
Community Action Southwest is seeking volunteers in Washington County for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, which provides low- to moderate-income households with free income tax filing services, protects them from predatory or expensive filing services and ensures they receive all tax credits for which they are eligible.
Community members interested in learning more about volunteering for the program are invited to attend an open house scheduled for 3:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Community Action Southwest office in Suite 304, 150 W. Beau St., Washington.
The agency needs volunteers for various positions including greeting and screening taxpayers and preparing income tax returns from 1 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays during income tax return season.
Volunteers do not need prior experience in tax filing as they receive training and certification through the program. Individuals may volunteer as little as two hours each week and more if their schedule allows.
Last year, the VITA program helped file 516 income tax returns in Washington and Greene Counties resulting in $663,878 in refunds.
VITA is part of the agency’s Community Action “Works” initiative which includes adult education, employability, housing and asset development, while creating opportunities and providing support for economic independence.
Community Action Southwest receives funding from the United Way in Washington and Greene counties to operate VITA.
Anyone who would like additional information or who intends to attend the open house event can call Rebecca Whoolery at 724-225-9550, extension 439 or email at rwhoolery@caswg.org.