United Way's free tax prep service (VITA)

United Way of Hancock County's free income tax preparation service, called VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), is available to anyone who lives, works or attends college in Hancock County. To qualify, an individual or family's combined annual household income must meet government standards.

This IRS program is run by trained volunteers offering free tax preparation and electronic filing for state and federal returns. No city taxes will be prepared. Appointments are offered at 50 North and the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library.

Appointments & Scheduling

Beginning Jan. 20, individuals may call 567-245-5599 to schedule their appointment. No appointments will be scheduled before this day, and absolutely no walk-ins will be accepted.

VITA appointments will begin the week of Feb. 3 and will continue through Tax Day, based on demand.

Who Qualifies for the Program?

To qualify for the free tax preparation, individuals or households must:

  • Have a combined income of $69,000 or less for tax year 2025.
  • Live, work or attend college in Hancock County.

Those who do not meet these federal requirements are encouraged to utilize the free, self-filing option at www.myfreetaxes.com. This United Way-sponsored program is offered in partnership with the IRS for households that earn under $89,000 annually. The website is self-guided, with prompts to help taxpayers complete their state and federal filings.

Necessary Items for your Appointment

There are some items you MUST bring to your appointment. If you do not bring these items, your taxes cannot be processed.

  • Valid photo ID, such as:

          - U.S. driver’s license

          - Employer ID

          - School ID

          - U.S. state ID

          - Military ID

          - Visa/Passport

  • A copy of last year’s federal, state and city returns
  • Social Security cards and/or ITIN notices for you, your spouse and any dependents, as well as their: 

          - Birth certificates

          - Birth dates

  • Proof of foreign status, if applicable
  • Wage and earning statements (Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R,1099-Misc) from ALL 2025 employers.

          - If you have overtime, bring the last paystub of the year (your overtime total will be recorded here)

          - Unemployment Form = 1099-G

  • Information for all other income(s), such as investments, retirement, IRA’s, etc.
  • Total paid for childcare and the childcare provider’s tax identifying number (Social Security or Business Employer Identification Number)
  • Proof of bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit, such as a blank check
  • Health Insurance Exemption Certificate, if applicable, or Marketplace form 1095-A

Married couples filing a joint tax return must both be present to sign the required forms.

VITA's Impact

The 2025 VITA season made over $1 million in impact to community members. Nearly 1,100 state and federal returns were filed by a group of 23 trained volunteers.