Purdue Extension’s Health and Human Sciences program is helping Hoosiers keep more money in their pockets this tax season through its VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program.
“Tax time is often the largest financial moment of the year for working families. It’s the opportunity to get refunds. A large amount of refund. Where they can catch up on bills, reducing their debt, building stability. It’s a huge opportunity for these families to just add to their savings,” says Ashley Piland, Financial Recources Manager for VITA.
The program offers free tax preparation services for individuals and families with moderate incomes, seniors, and those with disabilities. Trained volunteers help file accurate returns while making sure taxpayers claim valuable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.
Piland says VITA not only saves people hundreds of dollars in filing fees, but also helps strengthen financial stability across Indiana communities.
“And the best thing about being connected with the VITA program, there’s so many financial coaching available and financial education component that’s tied to it. Within Purdue extension, we are offering financial education asset building programs, that’s virtual, and depending on what county that you’re in, you’ll have some live classes as well. So those are all available to anyone and everyone, even if you don’t participate with the VITA program. But the services are there and they’re free. And it’s just that one step to getting closer to gaining that control over your finances.”
Learn more about the VITA Program by watching the latest Your Health Podcast here:
