The groundhogs might have predicted an early spring this year, but tax season never changes. W-2s have been sent and the April 15 deadline is fast approaching, so it’s time to get a jump on filing. But it is not something you have to do alone. Akron organizations are offering several free tax preparation options for those who meet income requirements.
Where can I get assistance filing my taxes?
United Way of Summit and Medina
Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, certified tax preparers fill out taxes free of charge for eligible households. In 2023, tax preparers completed 1,983 tax returns, resulting in more than $2.4 million in federal and state refunds.
“It’s a sort of double impact, it’s the money that people are actually getting in their pockets and money that’s not going out the pockets,” said Andrew Leask, associate vice president of brand management and communications.
Paid tax preparation can cost upwards of $200 Leask said, and in 2023 clients saved more than $495,000. VITA’s goal this year is to complete at least 2,900 tax returns.
Households with income of less than $64,000 are eligible for VITA. After completing an intake form, an assigned tax preparer will fill out the paperwork and then submit it to you to review and sign.
In-person and drop-off appointments are available at the Financial Empowerment Center at 1060 Kenmore Blvd. Drop-off appointments allow clients to leave their documentation with a tax preparer and return to sign off 24 to 48 hours later.
For households that make less than $79,000 a year, there is also an option to self-file taxes. Those interested can email vita@uwsummitmedina.org for access to no-cost online tax software.
Additional free tax preparation options
AARP tax assistance at Akron-Summit County library branches
AARP is offering drop-off tax aid at two branches:
- Maple Valley Branch Library Appointments are Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. through April 10. Call 330-864-5721 extension 4660 to schedule.Â
- Northwest Akron Branch Library. Appointments are Fridays from noon to 3 p.m. through April 5. Call 330-836-1081 extension 4700 to schedule.Â
Community Action Akron Summit
The Akron Summit Earned Income Tax Credit Commission offers free tax preparation for eligible low-income families. Appointments can be made online or by calling 234-206-3170.Â
What materials do I need to file my taxes?
- Driver’s license or state ID
- Social Security card and the Social Security cards for all dependents
- Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, Social Security Benefit statements or any other relevant documents)
- Any applicable expense documentation
- Copies of the previous year’s federal and state tax returns (if available)
- Bank account and routing numbers or a blank or voided check
- Identity Protection Pin (IP PIN) for the current year,if one has been issued
- An IP PIN is a six-digit number that prevents tax-related identity theft. Signing up for an IP PIN is a voluntary program.
Assistance for self-filing
For taxpayers filing their taxes at home, United Way of Summit and Medina is available to answer tax questions. Those interested can email vita@uwsummitmedina.org or call 2-1-1 to schedule an “Ask a Tax Question” call with a tax expert.
What if I need to file taxes for previous years?
Although the tax season ends April 15, United Way of Summit and Medina offers financial counseling throughout the year and can help clients file back taxes. The Financial Empowerment Center can also assist with planning payment of owed taxes.
