Last year, Montgomery County low-income residents saw an astounding $3,626,782 in tax refunds prepared free by IRS-certified volunteers. This free tax preparation service not only increased income for individual low-income households but was also a major boost to the Montgomery County local economy.

In partnership with Entergy Texas, Inc., Montgomery County United Way, AARP and Children's Books on Wheels will provide free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) for qualifying households in various locations throughout the county. Qualifying households include those who earned less than $54,000 in 2015, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. IRS-trained and certified volunteers work to ensure clients get the full refund and credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit, they are entitled to.

Last year's Montgomery County United Way Willis site, located at Meador Library, racked up a total of 435 volunteer hours with incredible results. The city of Willis VITA site experienced a 10% increase in tax returns filed, $92,000 saved in income tax preparation fees, and a total tax refund of $348,553.  The economic impact of the VITA program was such a success, that this year MCUW has added another mobile site in Splendora.

Along with multiple other opportunities for free tax preparation, Montgomery County United Way is also holding their annual Super Tax Day on February 6th at the Parent Support Center in Willis ISD. For complete information about this year's VITA program, locations and opportunities, visit http://www.mcuw.org/vita.