The VITA program is a free tax preparation service for local Santa Barbara County residents who make $67,000 or less a year. During the tax season of January through October, returns are prepared and electronically filed by IRS-certified volunteers for qualified individuals or families. Volunteer tax preparers can assist with general tax information, tax preparation, and filing.
Program Services:
Extended tax filing season appointments are now available on Thursdays through October 15th at United Way | Make Your Appointment today.
The VITA program helped me through the tax filing process completely free of charge. Thanks to this program, I was able to complete my taxes accurately and on time and established my first-ever savings with the refund I received.
It’s just so rewarding when you help people who need help doing their taxes. Sometimes it’s a matter of life and death. If they don’t get their proper refund back, that’s what they rely on to get them through the whole year. I’m really proud. I’ll be coming back as long as I can walk.
United Way’s VITA program is a cornerstone of our community’s well-being and helps hardworking families access crucial tax credits and put more money back in their pockets. The network of volunteer tax preparers is an invaluable part of building up our fellow community members’ financial stability and a stronger Santa Barbara County for everyone.
Whereas, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance preparers (VITA play a crucial role in assisting low-income individuals and families with tax preparation. VITA volunteers contribute significantly to promoting financial literacy and empowerment within communities by education taxpayers about tax laws, deductions, and credits. Volunteers serve as valuable advocates for vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to tax assistance.
Make an appointment with an IRS-certified volunteer to prepare and file your taxes for free.
Open to residents with an annual household income of $67,000 or less and by appointment only.
Sign up to become a VITA volunteer with United Way. Volunteers receive free IRS-certified training and instruction, valuable community service opportunities, and volunteer networking opportunities.
Support programs like VITA with your gift to United Way.
United Way of Santa Barbara County Office
Address: 320 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Hours of Operation: Tuesday, 1 PM-4 PM & Thursday, 1PM-4PM
Eastside Library- Santa Barbara Public Library
Address: 1102 E Montecito St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Hours of Operation: Monday, 4PM-7PM, Friday, 4PM-7PM & Saturday, 9AM-1PM
Goleta Valley Community Center
Address: 5679 Hollister Ave, Goleta, CA 93117
Hours of Operation: Friday, 9AM-12PM & 1PM-4PM
UCSB
Address: Location TBD
Hours of Operation: Saturdays 10am-3pm
320 East Gutierrez St.
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 965-8591