FISH of Sanibel-Captiva will host the United Way\u2019s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which will provide free tax preparation assistance for island residents.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cMany people feel overwhelmed by taxes, especially after the last few years. This program removes a lot of stress,\u201d FISH Senior Services Director Erika Arnowitz, who organizes the VITA program, said. \u201cIt\u2019s free, it\u2019s trustworthy and it helps neighbors feel confident that their taxes are done right.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The following will be needed at the appointment:<\/p>\n
\u2013 Photo ID for all filers<\/p>\n
\u2013 Social Security\/Medicare or ITIN cards for everyone on the return<\/p>\n
\u2013 Birth dates for everyone on the return<\/p>\n
\u2013 All income forms (W-2s, 1099s, SSA, pensions, unemployment)<\/p>\n
\u2013 Last year\u2019s return, if available<\/p>\n
\u2013 Dependent and childcare documentation<\/p>\n
\u2013 Total paid for daycare and provider\u2019s business Employer Identification Number<\/p>\n
\u2013 Health coverage forms (1095-A)<\/p>\n
\u2013 Bank details for direct deposit<\/p>\n
\u2013 If married and filing jointly, the spouse must be present to sign the return<\/p>\n
\u2013 Bring your final pay stub if you earned overtime in 2025 as it can affect your refund<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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).<\/p>\n
To schedule an appointment, visit https:\/\/www.unitedwaylee.org\/freetaxprep\/<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n