GRACE VITA volunteers helped families get more than $650,000 in tax refunds last year.
Last tax season, GRACE provided more than 380 families with tax assistance, financial coaching, and more than $650,000 in tax refunds, thanks to the resources of volunteers and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, or VITA program.
VITA volunteers have once again taken residence at the GRACE main offices, and will be assisting taxpayers through April 17.
The results are astounding. In the six years GRACE has been a VITA location, nearly $2,340,000 has been refunded to local families.
Last year, each family averaged nearly $2,000 in Earned Income Tax Credit. Earned Income Tax Credit and other credits, such as the Child and Dependent Care Credit, and many deductions are often left unclaimed or given a fraction of the return with a costly tax service.
For those on limited budgets or fixed incomes, a well-earned refund from the Internal Revenue Service has a significant budget impact , and creates a ripple effect that is far reaching, including the intangible support given during tax season for financial stewardship awareness, job coaching, and continued education resources to increase each family’s earning potential.
“The value of this service could not be overstated,” said Stacy Pacholick, GRACE Chief Program Officer. “Not only are refunds rightfully given back to the people who paid them, the teachable moments are boundless.”
VITA is open to all qualifying families with household incomes of $58,000 or less for the 2019 calendar year. In partnership with United Way of Tarrant County, the service is provided free with no out-of-pocket costs for tax preparations.
VITA volunteers will be at GRACE Main Offices, 837 East Walnut Street, Grapevine, every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, 2 – 7 p.m., and Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tax filers are asked to call the United Way 2-1-1 line, or to simply drop in for services.
Please bring valid photo identification, a Social Security card or individual Tax Identification Number (TIN) for all family members, all W-2 forms, a copy of the 2018 tax return, if possible, and 1099 forms, if applicable. If filing jointly, both spouses must be present.
If transportation is an issue, other VITA Locations are available for convenience. Returns are usually processed within three days. To get started, email VITA or call 817-258-8000.
