OHIO — Tax season is here, and the average cost to hire someone to file your taxes is nearly $200, according to Credit Karma.

What You Need To Know

  • The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax preparation services

  • United Way operates VITA sites across the state of Ohio 

  • VITA has IRS-certified volunteers 

However, if your household earns less than $60,000 annually, you could qualify for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, known as VITA, a service of the United Way.

United Way chapters throughout Ohio operate VITA sites, making its free tax preparation service available to every region of the state.

“If you fall under income guidelines, definitely take advantage of the free tax prep," said Nicole Chavers, manager of Financial Empowerment Initiatives for United Way of Summit & Medina. 

The VITA program at United Way of Summit and Medina resulted in more than $3 million in tax refunds for their residents. The organization schedules in-person, drive-in, drop-off or virtual appointments.

The United Way's "211" 24-hour community resource and referral line is staffed by experts who can offer details on VITA and other programs. 

Additionally, the Cuyahoga EITC Coalition is part of the VITA program. Its free tax preparation services are available at nearl 20 tax sites in Cleveland and throughout Cuyahoga County.

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