The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program serves low to moderate income families with free electronic filing of their tax returns. In 2012, CADC electronically filed over 2,900 tax returns for low to moderate income families. Those families received over $3.4 million in federal refunds, and  more than $1 million was in Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a refundable federal credit for low-wage workers.

CADC saluted its volunteers who provide the free tax counseling and partners who help support the program. More than 50 volunteers in Pulaski, Saline and Lonoke counties contributed 3,000 hours of service in the program during tax season

In recognizing volunteers for their service, CADC executive director Larry Cogburn said "Volunteers and community partners are the backbone of our agency, helping us bridge the gap in reaching the underserved in our communities. They give of their time, their service and their hearts to a great cause - lending a helping hand to persons in need. We salute their work and effort."

CADC offered the IRS sponsored VITA program at the following locations:

City of Jacksonville Office, 109 South Second St.

Both Legal Aid and the Arkansas Workforce Center of Little Rock are currently open for tax return preparation. Those needing to file taxes may call 501-778-1133 to schedule an appointment.

CADC's offers the free tax service in part to is help more families apply for Earned Income Credit (EIC).             The IRS estimates, however, that one-fourth of eligible people could miss out on the EIC because they don’t know about it, don’t know that they qualify, or don’t know where to find free tax filing assistance. Additionally, low-wage workers are encouraged to use the service rather than pay higher fees for rapid advance loans or "rapid refunds." Taxpayers utilizing the service receive their federal refunds within 10 days if doing direct deposit, and generally about 5 days with state refunds.   

At CADC tax sites, IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers work one-on-one with families and individuals to help file their tax returns and ensure that they receive the tax credits for which they qualify. Sites also provide information on financial education classes and saving with US Savings Bonds. Customers can split refunds into multiple accounts, or if they don't hold a bank account, can receive their refund on a debit card. Customers generally receive federal refunds 7-10 days.

CADC is a private nonprofit community action agency that was formed in 1965 to fight and win the “War on Poverty.” The mission of CADC is to improve the quality of life and build strong communities in Arkansas. For more information, please contact CADC at 501-778-1133.

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