SAN ANTONIO — Need last minute help with taxes? San Antonio's VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program will be available though Tuesday.
The IRS sponsored program is free to anyone who makes $55,000 (or less) taxable income on their tax return. Tax returns are prepared by trained and certified volunteers. According to the VITA program, these volunteers undergo a minimum of 20 hours of training and must pass a exam specified by the IRS.
Calling ahead is advised.
Be prepared for your visit
Make sure to bring the following documentation (if it applies to you):
Tax documents
- W-2, 1099, or other wage and earning statements
- Letter 6419, 2021 Total Advance Child Tax Credit Payments, to reconcile advance Child Tax Credit payments
- Letter 6475, Your 2021 Economic Impact Payment, to determine eligibility to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
- Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement, to reconcile advance Premium Tax Credits for Marketplace coverage
- the dates and amounts of any stimulus checks received.
- Annuity or retirement: 1099-R
- Social Security Statement: 1099-SSA
- Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099-INT and 1099-DIV)
Identification
- Proof of Identification—Drivers License, Government issued Photo I.D.
- Social Security Card or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) for you, your spouse and dependents you will claim
- Birth dates for you, your spouse and and dependents you will claim
- Bank Routing Numbers and Account Numbers for Direct Deposit
- To file taxes electronically on a married filing joint tax return, BOTH spouses must be present to sign the required forms
You are not required to bring the previous year's tax return but it will be extremely helpful to the volunteers handling you current return.
Expenses
Independent contractors and small business owners will need to document their expenses on an organized spreadsheet. Other tax returns may also benefit from documentation for the following:
- Mortgage interest: 1098
- Real estate taxes paid (statement or receipt)
- Child care expenses: provider receipt showing provider Identification Number
- Medical Expenses: detailed receipts
- Charitable contributions
- Education: Form 1098-T Tuition Statement; must have the school EIN
- Student Loan Interest: 1098-E
Program participants who are not able to finish filing their return may be able to get hep with filing a tax extension. Ask your tax preparer what options you have available.