For over a decade, the United Way of Knox County's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program has been more than just a tax preparation service. In 2025, the program assisted 517 local residents in filing their 2024 tax returns, resulting in $595,922 in federal refunds for those in need. The VITA program helps various community members, including single parents and seniors on fixed incomes, to manage essential expenses such as rent and groceries.
Participants saved $103,400 in tax preparation fees through the program. The VITA initiative continues to offer free IRS-certified tax assistance to low- and middle-income households while providing access to financial tools like budgeting support and debt management resources.
This year's outcomes included $165,470 in Earned Income Credit, $57,916 in Child Tax Credit, and $11,005 in Education Credits. The average taxpayer income was reported at $29,927. Seniors accounted for over half of all returns with 292 filings, receiving $247,516 in refunds and saving $58,400 in preparation costs.
The success of the program is attributed to its dedicated team of seven trained volunteers and five staff preparers. Richard Ellis, a first-time volunteer with VITA, said: "Volunteering with the United Way of Knox County through the VITA program has been very rewarding." He added that United Way provided all necessary training and emphasized the impact volunteers have on the community.
United Way encourages individuals from all backgrounds to volunteer during tax season. For more information about the VITA program or volunteering opportunities next season, visit www.uwayknox.org or call 740-397-5721.
