FORT MYERS, Fla. - TelAve -- United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is ramping up its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in February to help low to moderate income households have their federal tax returns prepared and e-filed for free. The organization will host two Taxathon events on Feb. 3 in Hendry County and Feb 5 in Lee County.

United Way's free tax preparation program helps eligible households meet their basic needs and build financial assets. Residents with a household income of $70,000 or less can have their federal tax returns prepared and e-filed at no cost through the VITA program. IRS-certified United Way volunteers prepare returns and determine eligibility for tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and childcare credits.

Tax preparers also determine whether taxpayers qualify for other tax breaks designed to assist lower to middle income individuals. Returns are filed electronically, making tax refunds available as quickly as those filed through commercial tax preparation services.

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The Tuesday, Feb. 3, event will take place from noon to 8 p.m. at the LaBelle Civic Center, 481 W. Hickpochee Ave., LaBelle.

The Thursday, Feb. 5, event will take place from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the United Way David Lucas Campus, 7273 Concourse Drive, Fort Myers.

A Spanish translator will be available at both events.

Appointments are recommended; however, walk-ins will be accepted. To make an appointment call 2-1-1 or 239-433-3900. Appointments may also be scheduled online at UnitedWayLee.org/FreeTaxPrep.

To have a tax return prepared, taxpayers must bring the following items to the event:

• Photo ID.
• Social Security Card or ITIN letter for everyone on the tax return.
• All tax documents, including Marketplace 1095A.
• Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit, as the IRS no longer issues paper checks.

United Way encourages taxpayers to split their tax refunds between checking and savings accounts to help build emergency savings. Taxpayers who do so will be entered into a drawing to win a $100 Visa gift card.

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Taxpayers who have access to a computer and prefer to file their own taxes for free may also do so through the United Way MyFreeTaxes program by visiting MyFreeTaxes.com (https://www.myfreetaxes.com/). The platform is simple, fast, and secure, and offers online assistance throughout the filing process.

About United Way

United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades has raised and distributed more than $272 million since its establishment in 1957, with all funds staying local to support a vast network of partner agencies and community programs.  Together, we serve the community by nurturing youth, strengthening families, helping the elderly and disabled live independently, and empowering neighborhoods by delivering essential health and human services. Visit UnitedWayLee.org (https://www.unitedwaylee.org/) to learn more.