The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free tax preparation services to Bexar County residents, has seen a dramatic 63% increase in tax returns filed in just the first month of tax season this year. Additionally, there has been a 24% increase in tax refund dollars with roughly $10 million going back to families in our community through VITA so far.
These residents were able to declare their 2023 taxes at no cost and save thousands on tax-preparation fees.
The significant increase in VITA users is driven by several factors, including the raising of the income threshold to qualify for services from $55,000 last year to $60,000.
Another key factor in residents using VITA more this year is likely the rising cost of living in San Antonio. Our research shows that 46% of all Bexar County residents, nearly half, are experiencing economic hardship and faced with making difficult financial decisions daily.
VITA services are available at 13 locations throughout San Antonio and Fredericksburg until April 15. Tax preparation services in Spanish are available at all sites. Select locations offer refund anticipation loans to VITA filers at select locations, with absolutely no fees or interest charged.
For more information and documents needed when visiting a VITA site or locations, call 2-1-1 or visit vitasa.org.
