February 19, 2016
“So many people in our community need help when it comes to figuring out their taxes, including myself, so I am thankful for programs like Vita.”
Roberta Canady is a 57 year old Milwaukee resident and retiree from the State of Wisconsin. She is one of many who have lined up at Social Development Commission (SDC) to utilize the Vita (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Program.
The Vita program provides free federal and state tax preparation and filing services for any individuals with a household income of $56,000 or less. As a retiree, this program has been invaluable to Canady who lives on a fixed income. “I am retired, but I do still work part-time as a driver for Uber. I normally file my own taxes, but this year I was unsure how to prepare them because of my part-time job.”
Preparation and filing are only one component of the VITA program. Clients served by the program also have the opportunity to participate in financial workshops, meet with financial institutions to open new bank accounts and reconnect with the traditional banking services.
This year United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County awarded a grant to the SDC to help keep the program running. The extra funds enable SDC to come closer to its goal of $82,000 and secure matching funds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). SDC projects they will serve around 8,000 individuals for the 2015-2016 tax season.
“I used to give to United Way when I was working to help others in our community. Now I’m the one who needs help. It’s great to see that United Way’s support is still there,” Canady said.
The 2015-16 VITA program runs through Monday, April 18. Find locations and hours on the SDC website.
Learn more about United Way’s Grant to the SDC.