Free Tax Preparation by Vita Tax
(SARASOTA, FL) – For many hard-working individuals and families, tax season can be a source of stress and financial burden. The cost of professional tax preparation can feel overwhelming, and the fear of missing out on valuable credits is real. What if you could access expert, free tax preparation services designed to put money back in your pocket—not just in April, but all year long?
Thanks to a powerful partnership between Goodwill Manasota and United Way Suncoast, that is now a reality for our community. We are thrilled to announce that our free tax preparation services through the IRS VITA program are now available year-round at our Mecca location in Sarasota.
Table of Contents
- What is the VITA Program?
- The Impact: By the Numbers
- Who Qualifies for Free Tax Preparation?
- What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Beyond Taxes: Building Financial Freedom
- A Partnership Rooted in Community
- How to Schedule Your Free Appointment
What is the VITA Program?
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is a national IRS initiative designed to support underserved communities. It provides free tax preparation services to low- to moderate-income individuals, ensuring they receive accurate filings and every credit and deduction they deserve.
Certified volunteers undergo rigorous IRS training to handle a wide variety of tax situations, including complex credits that can significantly increase your refund.
The Local Impact: Our Mission in Action
The need for this service in our community is undeniable. Since expanding to year-round availability at our Sarasota location, we’ve seen incredible demand, with all available slots filled through mid-August.
The impact of this program is measured in more than just numbers—it’s measured in financial relief and opportunity for our neighbors. However, the numbers from the first half of 2025 are powerful:
- 614 community members served at Goodwill locations.
- Nearly $145,000 saved in preparation fees.
- Thousands of dollars in valuable tax credits returned to local households.
This initiative is a cornerstone of our mission to help ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families keep more of what they earn and build a more secure financial future.
Do You Qualify for Free Tax Preparation?
The VITA program is designed to help those who need it most. You likely qualify for free tax preparation if:
- Your household annual income is $79,000 or less.
- You are a person with a disability.
- You are an elderly individual.
- You have limited English proficiency.
Our goal is to remove barriers to filing taxes, including cost, access to technology, and understanding of the tax code.
What You Need to Bring to Your Appointment
Being prepared is key to a smooth and successful tax appointment. Please bring the following with you:
- Photo ID for yourself (and your spouse, if filing jointly).
- Social Security Cards or ITINs for yourself, your spouse, and all dependents.
- All tax forms you received (e.g., W-2s, 1099s, 1098-T).
- A copy of last year’s tax return (if available).
- Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit of your refund.
- Child care information (provider name, address, EIN) if applicable.
For a comprehensive checklist of what to bring, you can always refer to the official IRS VITA/TCE Site information page (external link).
Beyond Taxes: Building Pathways to Financial Freedom
Filing your taxes for free is just the first step. The refunds and credits unlocked through this program often provide a pivotal financial boost for families.
“This program often delivers tax dollars that can be pivotal in helping community members manage household expenses,” said United Way Suncoast CEO Jessica Muroff. “We also work to inform filers about the complementary financial coaching and stability services we offer. Combined, these initiatives give people what we like to call the ‘Freedom to Rise’.”
At Goodwill Manasota, we are proud to offer job training and other career services that can help you build on this financial momentum. Whether you need help with job training, resume writing, or placement services, we are here to support your journey to economic independence.
A Partnership Rooted in Community Strength
This year-round service is a testament to what we can achieve when community organizations unite for a common cause.
“We’re thrilled to expand our partnership with United Way Suncoast,” said Donn Githens, President and CEO of Goodwill Manasota. “By providing comfortable, accessible locations and expert assistance, we are ensuring residents can file their taxes easily and conveniently—now all year long.”
This collaboration is a powerful example of our shared commitment to creating a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
How to Schedule Your Free Tax Preparation Appointment
Ready to file your taxes for free and maximize your refund? Appointments are required for this service.
Call 941-748-1313 to schedule your appointment today. You can also visit uwsvita.org for more information on eligibility and required documentation.
For more information on all of Goodwill Manasota’s life-changing programs and services, from free career training to community employment services, we invite you to explore our website.
About Goodwill Manasota: Goodwill Manasota is an industry-leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that changes lives through the power of work. With philanthropic donations and revenue generated by the sales of donated goods, Goodwill assists people with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and those with other barriers to employment by providing jobs, job skills training, and free career services.
About United Way Suncoast: United Way Suncoast mobilizes the community to action so all can thrive. They elevate early learning, energize middle school and high school youths, and empower community members through financial stability. They proudly serve Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, and DeSoto counties.
