Partnership with AARP & VITA for FREE Tax Assistance

The Treasure Coast Community Action Agency (TCCAA) which is supported through a Community Services Block Grant, is partnering with AARP and Volunteers in Tax Assistance programs to support free tax preparation services for St. Lucie County residents, regardless of age or income.  Various community organizations and businesses have joined together in the Network to Encourage Asset Development (NEAD) as a creative way to help build self-reliant individuals and families.

Often individuals and families who are in financial need will seek out 'rapid refund' loan programs and pay high interest rates, as well as high fees for their tax preparation.  The efile process through these free tax programs will often provide returns as quickly as 2 weeks and will not cost anything in interest.

AARP and VITA are the nation’s largest free volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation services.  TCCAA and NEAD are working together to increase volunteer recruitment and expand the number of sites open to residents.  In addition, NEAD supporters will be providing financial education through the Cooperative Extension and Consumer Credit Counseling Services.  These organizations will provide financial life skills training that helps low-income individuals and families learn and apply effective household management and budgeting techniques. 

TCCAA will be providing funding to encourage low income residents to begin saving towards a future goal such as purchasing a new home, saving for college, or starting a business. Residents who agree to set aside a portion of their tax returns into an Individual Development Account (a secured account), will receive matching funds through the Community Services Block Grant.  If someone saves even a portion of their return (for example, $500), then the TCCAA will contribute a matching $500.  It may be that the local bank Community Reinvestment Act can also provide match funds.  The IDA program will begin in February 2008.

Local agencies will also provide Case Management support to help residents and families address other concerns and provide resources such as health care, application for other services/supports, veteran’s services, lifeline, etc.

For additional information on how to volunteer, please call 772-462-1777.