The new year is upon us, and it may be hard to believe, but it’s time to start thinking about filing income taxes for 2025. For some, the process can seem overwhelming. Others may feel they have nothing to gain, so they may not even file. While filing taxes isn’t on the top of most people’s fun things to do list, it is necessary, and not filing could result in the loss of refunds or, worse, penalties. The good news is there is help available, and for some individuals the service can be taken care of for free.
“The Goodwill VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program will be available in Oceana, Muskegon and Newaygo counties again during the upcoming tax season,” Tax Program Coordinator for Goodwill VITA Amanda Kitchka said. “Anyone who has a taxable income under $70,000 can take advantage of this opportunity to have their taxes prepared free of charge. Starting January 20, individuals may call 211 to find out if they qualify. All appointments are held with an IRS-trained volunteer and are completely confidential.”
Oceana County VITA tax appointment sites and times are as follows: Oceana County Council on Aging (4250 W. Tyler Rd., Hart) Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Hart City Community Center (407 S. State St., Hart) Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-6 p.m.
Volunteer tax preparers are always needed. To find out more about the program, go to www.vitawestmichigan.org and click on the “Volunteer form” under the VOLUNTEERS tab at the top right side of the page.
VITA is one of the many beneficial programs available through the United Way of the Lakeshore and is administered by Goodwill Industries of Michigan. More information on the United Way’s VITA program and other free tax assistance can be found at https://www.unitedwaylakeshore...
