Community members in Grants Pass now have an opportunity to receive free help completing their federal and state tax returns, thanks to a partnership between the Grants Pass branch of the Josephine Community Library and Josephine County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
Starting February 4 and running through April 11, VITA volunteers will be available at the Grants Pass Library, located at 200 NW C Street, every Tuesday and Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to assist individuals in filing their taxes at no cost. This collaboration aims to provide an essential service for community members, particularly those who may face financial challenges or lack access to professional tax preparation services.
On Fridays, VITA volunteers will assist individuals who are comfortable filing their own taxes using free TaxSlayer software. Appointments are required for this option, and participants will need to have basic computer skills to navigate the online filing system. This service is designed for those who prefer to take a hands-on approach to their taxes but need some guidance in setting up their profile and completing the necessary forms.
Alternatively, for those who may not be as familiar with technology or simply prefer a more traditional approach, appointments are available on Tuesdays with an in-person tax preparer. This option allows individuals to have their taxes filed for them without the need for any computer skills. The VITA volunteers will help with preparing tax returns for participants, making the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
The program is designed for individuals with straightforward tax situations, such as those receiving job compensation, Social Security benefits, or retirement 1099s. To qualify for assistance, the participant’s annual income must be under $86,000, excluding Social Security benefits.
In addition to the scheduled appointments, walk-in participants are welcome on a limited basis to receive forms and answers to general tax-related questions, as time allows. This flexibility ensures that even those without an appointment can still get some help or information if they need it.
Community members interested in scheduling an appointment for tax assistance can call the VITA program at 541-223-9597 or visit their website at joco-freetaxes.com. Appointments are encouraged, as availability can be limited during the busy tax season.
For more information about this program or to learn about other library services and programs, residents can visit the Josephine Community Library’s website at josephinelibrary.org, email info@josephinelibrary.org, or call 541-476-0571.
This partnership between the library and VITA reflects a commitment to providing valuable resources and support to the community, ensuring that more residents have access to the tools they need for a successful tax season.