FISH of Sanibel-Captiva will host the United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which will provide free tax preparation assistance for island residents.
The service is available to individuals and families with a household income of $70,000 or less, and it includes free preparation, e-filing and direct deposit by IRS-certified United Way volunteers.
“Many people feel overwhelmed by taxes, especially after the last few years. This program removes a lot of stress,” FISH Senior Services Director Erika Arnowitz, who organizes the VITA program, said. “It’s free, it’s trustworthy and it helps neighbors feel confident that their taxes are done right.”
Every other Friday from Feb. 6 through April 3, VITA will offer the tax preparation service from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. Appointments are required.
The volunteers are trained to assist with tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, Childcare, and Education Credits. VITA can only handle simple returns; returns with rental income or certain self-employment losses are not eligible.
The following will be needed at the appointment:
– Photo ID for all filers
– Social Security/Medicare or ITIN cards for everyone on the return
– Birth dates for everyone on the return
– All income forms (W-2s, 1099s, SSA, pensions, unemployment)
– Last year’s return, if available
– Dependent and childcare documentation
– Total paid for daycare and provider’s business Employer Identification Number
– Health coverage forms (1095-A)
– Bank details for direct deposit
– If married and filing jointly, the spouse must be present to sign the return
– Bring your final pay stub if you earned overtime in 2025 as it can affect your refund
FISH and United Way pointed out that direct deposit matters. Without bank information, including routing and account numbers, paper refunds can be delayed six weeks or more.
Additionally, both the taxpayer (or spouse) and qualifying child must have valid Social Security numbers to earn the Child Tax Credit. Those filing separately with a filing status of married may not be eligible for certain provisions, including the senior deduction and reduced tax on tips or overtime. Students or those making payments on a student loan should bring their tuition statement from school (1098-T) and student loan interest statement (1098-E).
To schedule an appointment, visit https://www.unitedwaylee.org/freetaxprep/ or call 211 or 239-433-3900. People can also contact 211 or 239-433-3900 to see if they qualify for the free service.