The Internal Revenue Service Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program has been around since 1969, but many people are not aware of it. This year, River Cities United Way is partnering with the IRS to bring the VITA program to Lake Havasu City.

The VITA program will provide free income tax preparation assistance to those who qualify. Individuals and families with a household income of $60,000 or less per year can receive free tax preparation and help with tax credits they may not be aware of, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit. Child Tax Credit, Education Tax Credit and Child Care tax deductions.

More than $3.4 million was returned to eligible working families in 2014. VITA’s goal is to help more individuals and families achieve greater financial stability with their free tax preparation services. Anyone who files a basic tax return can have their taxes prepared at one of the many VITA sites in Bullhead, Kingman and Lake Havasu City. Appointments will be made on a first-come, first-served basis, based on availability of community volunteers.

To schedule an appointment, visit www.rivercitiesunitedway.org/VITAAPT or call 928-855-6333.

The VITA program is also looking for volunteers to assist in tax preparation. Volunteers are needed on an ongoing basis through mid-April, and no experience is necessary. Volunteers will receive free IRS certification training as tax preparers, screeners, greeters, reviewers and site coordinators. Bilingual volunteers are also needed.

To volunteer, contact River Cities United Way President and CEO Lyn Demaret or VITA Coordinator Sara Smith at 928-855-6333, or email Smith at sara@rivercitiesunitedway.org.