The Cooperative Ministry is committed to ensuring that hardworking Columbia residents can access FREE tax services to file their returns and claim their tax refunds through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

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VITA is a free, IRS-sponsored program to help low-to-moderate income workers have their federal and state personal income taxes prepared and filed electronically at no cost. The Cooperative Ministry can help you obtain all eligible tax credits and deductions, especially the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Education Tax Credits, and Child Care tax deductions.

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The Cooperative Ministry’s trained and IRS-certified volunteers serve at over 20 locations across the Midlands during the tax season (February 1 – October 1).

There are now three easy ways to file for free through VITA:

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IN-PERSON DROPOFF & PICKUP

Arrive at one of our 24 sites, complete intake forms, and provide needed tax documents in person. Once the return is received, you will be scheduled to return to pick up your completed return on another day. If the client volume is low, you can choose to wait. Your tax return is prepared by an IRS-certified volunteer between your two visits.

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With direct deposit, refunds normally arrive at your bank account within 7-21 days when filed electronically.

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To schedule an appointment at our main office, use our online calendar and select the date and time most convenient to you.

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GetYourRefund.org/THECOOPMIN

In partnership with CodeForAmerica, GetYourRefund is a completely free, virtual option. To get started, visit GetYourRefund.org/TheCoopMin on your telephone, answer a series of questions, upload your tax documents, and schedule a call with an IRS-certified volunteer to complete your return.

 

MyFreeTaxes

MyFreeTaxes allows taxpayers, regardless of income, to prepare their own returns using a simple step-by-step process that includes free telephone, email, and online chat support from IRS-certified specialists. Dial 2-1-1 for support using MyFreeTaxes or visit myfreetaxes.com/support.