The income limits are $60,000 for married couples filing jointly or single with children and $25,000 for all others.

Appointments are available Mondays and Thursdays between 5 and 8 p.m. and Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Walk-in appointments are not being accepted this year due to COVID-19 precautions.

“This is a great program for low-income people and families because they can get their taxes and refunds and earned tax income credits without having to pay a lot of money,” said Chief Executive Officer of United Way of Greater Fort Dodge Randy Kuhlman.

According to the United Way of Greater Fort Dodge, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program provides free tax preparation for individuals and families who qualify based on income guidelines and ensures taxpayers take advantage of every tax credit for which they are eligible such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a refundable federal income tax credit available to low-income families. EITC was originally approved by Congress in 1975 to offset the burden of Social Security taxes and to provide an incentive to work.

The United Way of Greater Fort Dodge said the bulk of EITC benefits go to families with incomes below the federal poverty level. Research indicated that families use the EITC to pay for necessities, to repair homes and vehicles that are needed to commute to work and to boost their earning power by obtaining additional education or training.

Working people who meet certain income requirements and file a tax return, even if they did not earn enough money to be obligated to file a tax return, are eligible for the EITC.

Appointments in Fort Dodge are available through April 16 and can be made by calling 515-269-1680. If there is no answer, leave a message and someone will return your call as soon as possible.

Tax preparation services are provided by certified volunteers. If you are interested in becoming a tax volunteer, contact the United Way of Greater Fort Dodge at 515-955-8880.

What to bring to an appointment, if applicable:

• All W-2s, 1099s, and all tax statements you have received

• IRS Letter 6419 if you received Advanced Child Tax Credit

Information for all other income

• A copy of last year’s return

• A canceled check or deposit slip for direct deposit

• Social Security cards for all people listed on the return

• Photo ID for self and spouse

• Total paid to daycare provider and their tax ID

• Forms 1095-A, 1095-B, or 1095-C, if received