News Summary

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is offering free tax preparation and e-filing services for Beaufort and Jasper County residents. This initiative, operated by the United Way of the Lowcountry, aims to assist qualifying taxpayers during tax season. Appointments are required for six designated Tax Prep Days in Bluffton and Beaufort, where IRS-certified volunteers will help individuals maximize their refunds and ensure eligibility for credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit.

Beaufort and Jasper County Residents to Benefit from Free Tax Prep Days

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is set to provide crucial support for Beaufort and Jasper County residents during tax season.

Program Overview

• Operated by United Way of the Lowcountry, in collaboration with the Beaufort County Human Services Alliance and the IRS.
• Offers free, confidential, and secure tax preparation and e-filing services for qualifying taxpayers.

Scheduled Tax Prep Days

Six designated Tax Prep Days will be held in Beaufort and Bluffton. All sessions require appointments.

• Bluffton Dates: April 21, April 28, July 28, and September 29.
• Location: Bluffton Public Library, 120 Palmetto Drive from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Beaufort Dates: June 23 and August 25.
• Location: United Way of the Lowcountry office, 1277 Ribaut Road.

Volunteer Support

IRS-certified volunteers will provide tax preparation assistance during these sessions. According to Sherry Halphen, VITA Program Coordinator, the initiative is vital for helping individuals with limited resources navigate the tax filing process.

Program Goals

Dale Douthat, President and CEO of United Way of the Lowcountry, highlighted the program’s focus on maximizing refunds and promoting financial self-sufficiency. With VITA, individuals can claim every eligible deduction and credit, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

How to Participate

Residents can visit www.uwlowcountry.org/VITA to book appointments and learn about required documents for tax prep.

To check eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit, visit www.irs.gov/eitcassistant.

Program Launch Date

VITA services began in early February 2025, providing a much-needed resource for the community during this tax season.

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Additional Resources

• WSAV: VITA Offering Free Tax Prep Days
• Your Island News: Free Tax Prep for Qualified Residents
• WITN: Beaufort County Assistant Principal Powerball Win
• Island Packet: Beaufort County Politics News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tax Preparation