News : United Way Program Puts Over $2.6 Million Back Into Eastern Iowa

United Way Program Puts Over $2.6 Million Back Into Eastern Iowa The VITA program concludes for 2023 Tax Season

United Way of East Central Iowa (UWECI) proudly wraps up its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program with a successful 2023 tax season.

This year, VITA prepared and filed over 1,800 refunds throughout two counties and seventy-nine cities, bringing back over $2.6 million into Eastern Iowans' pockets. The average tax preparation fee is $176. Those who can't afford this fee either do their own taxes, often missing important tax credits, or do not file their taxes at all.

Steve Hershner, a fourth-year volunteer with VITA, shared the profound impact of the free service on its clients and volunteers, emphasizing how it goes beyond just numbers.

"It's clear walking through the tax filing process with them provides such a sense of relief," Hershner said. "As a volunteer, it feels good to help maximize their refund while minimizing what they owe and help take a burden off their shoulders during a potentially stressful time."

Karey Chase, Vice President of Community Impact, added that it's crucial to foster an environment where every client feels valued and understood, regardless of the challenges they face.

"By ensuring that every client feels comfortable and confident in every appointment, the program helps individuals navigate the tax season with ease and empowers clients to take control of their financial responsibilities," Chase said.

Not every family or individual receives assistance with understanding and managing taxes, causing it to be a confusing and daunting process. VITA is a free volunteer-run tax preparation service provided to those earning less than $60,000 per year as an individual or family who reside in Linn, Jones, Benton, Cedar, or Iowa counties through UWECI.