CLOSING GAPS AND CREATING OPPORTUNITIES. FAMILY FINANCIAL STABILITY.

The challenge: The cost of living has far outpaced wages in Connecticut with more than one in three hardworking households struggling to make ends meet.

The solution: Mobilize hundreds of IRS-certified volunteers to prepare and file federal and state tax returns for those eligible in our region to claim every tax credit and refund they have earned. The ultimate goal is to return the maximum amount to taxpayers so they can catch up on bills, build their savings and invest in improvements in housing, transportation, education and more.

Stable household budgets help support positive health and education outcomes for children and youth. Together with our partners, United Way makes Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) available across our region so people can get ahead financially, pay down debt and work toward saving for the future.

During the 2022-2023 Connecticut Legislative Session, Connecticut United Ways successfully advocated for increasing the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Governor Lamont and his administration enhanced the Connecticut EITC to 40 percent, up from 23.0 percent.

In 2022, United Way mobilized more than 250 volunteers who returned nearly $20 million in tax credits and refunds to more than 13,000 people across central and northeastern Connecticut.

Join us as a VITA volunteer! No previous experience is required and IRS certification is provided at no cost. Visit unitedwayinc.org/taxhelp to learn more and sign up.