Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program

Goodwill Industries of West Michigan’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free, IRS-certified tax preparation for low- to moderate-income households across Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties. Working from seven conveniently located host sites (libraries, senior centers, resource hubs) with appointments scheduled via MI 2-1-1, trained volunteers ensure filers claim every credit for which they’re eligible and file accurately the first time. Beyond tax season, VITA offers year-round tax planning, education on credits and withholding, and assistance filing prior-year returns—services that are often unaffordable elsewhere.

VITA’s impact is immediate and measurable: many clients have no filing requirement yet qualify for significant refunds and credits; for typical households, combined federal and state refunds frequently equal 20–30% of annual income. Trust and accessibility fuel demand—roughly 70% of clients return each year—while partnerships with the IRS, United Way, 2-1-1, TrueNorth, MCC, and local municipalities expand reach and quality.

Why this supports United Way’s mission/priorities
VITA directly advances Economic Mobility by providing no-cost access to a critical financial service and connecting ALICE households to income supports (tax credits and refunds) that help them meet basic needs, avoid predatory fees, and build stability. By increasing take-home resources and offering practical financial education, the program aligns with United Way’s strategy to expand access to financial products and coaching—and with the bold goal of helping more working families in Lakeshore communities thrive.