HRDC is set to begin their ninth season of providing tax preparation services through their Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA). Individuals and households with incomes of less than $57,000 are eligible for tax assistance through VITA.

HRDC’s VITA service will start on Monday, February 8 and go through Thursday, April 8, 2021. Appointments are required for tax assistance. In an effort to maintain social distancing guidelines and keep everyone safe, services will be a drop-off/pick-up model instead of face-to-face. Customers will get details when they schedule their appointment. In order to verify their identity, VITA customers must bring a photo ID and Social Security Card to their appointment. Customers must also bring all applicable tax documents for the 2020 tax year (Forms W-2, 1099, 1098, 1095-A/B/C, charitable contributions) including Notice-1444 and Notice 1444-B reporting stimulus payments. If individuals are seeking direct deposit for their refund or payment, they will need their bank account number and their bank’s routing number.

“VITA is one of the most effective ways to provide financial opportunity to individuals and families in our community. Of people we served last year, the average refund was around $1,800. That can mean a lot to a household,” says Marc Graham, HRDC Financial Opportunity Coordinator.

Those interested in receiving tax assistance should call the appropriate location for more information. For appointments in Bozeman, Belgrade, Gardiner, White Sulphur Springs, or at the MSU Vet Center, call 406-585-4848. For appointments in Livingston, call 406-223-4479.

For information about HRDC Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) service, visit https://thehrdc.org/financial-development/tax-assistance/. For more information about any other HRDC service, visit thehrdc.org.