Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
UWSC is proud to partner with Iowa State University to offer tax preparation assistance to Story County residents through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
Volunteer with Vita
Make a difference in Story County this tax season through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program sponsored by United Way of Story County and Iowa State University.
What You'll Do:
- Become an IRS-Certified Tax Counselor (training provided!)
- Provide free, reliable tax preparation to help neighbors file accurately
- Help return $300,000+ in refunds and credits to those who need it most
- Reduce financial stress and build financial stability in your community
Set Your Schedule
- Volunteer when and where it works for you
- 2026 tax season: February 3 - April 15
- Morning, afternoon, and evening shifts are available
- Flexible with holiday and travel plans
Locations
- Ames Public Library
- Nevada Public Library
- Bertha Bartlett Public Library (Story City)
Requirements
- Three days of classroom training, free of charge
Interested? Contact:
Galen Wilke, galenwilke@gmail.com
Doug Meinhard, dougmeinhard@gmail.com or 515-451-4575
Preparation Assistance
Tax preparation assistance is closed for 2025. Please check back this fall for information for the next tax season!
Do you qualify for free tax assistance?
We can prepare your return if:
- Your household income is less than $67,000
- You have no virtual currency trades, for example bitcoin.
- You have no farm schedules or rental income
- Are not clergy, military, or an international student (International students, who are U.S. tax nonresidents, can schedule here for the ISU VITA site)
MyFreeTaxes
United Way's MyFreeTaxes is an online service that lets everyone with a simple return file their federal and state tax returns for free. This means people can take advantage of crucial tax credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC), and obtain any missed stimulus payments.
MyFreeTaxes brought more than $1.85 billion back to working families across the nation last year. At United Way of Story County, we focus on lasting solutions for all individuals and families to gain financial stability. Getting you your maximum refund is one way to help.
**If you are in need of reliable internet service, internet hotspots are available to be checked out at the Ames Public Library with a library card.