As tax filing season approaches, Chester County residents are reminded that their taxes can be prepared free of charge through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, which is offered locally by Life Transforming Ministries (LTM).

"VITA is an amazing program offered by the IRS to partners, such as LTM. (It gives LTM) the opportunity to offer free federal and state tax preparation for low- to moderate-income households in our communities," said Donna Laird, LTM VITA administration support. "By low, we mean those making around $70,000 or less, yet our goal is to offer service to anyone who needs help. Tax returns are electronically prepared and filed at no cost to the taxpayer. Every site is run by volunteers who are trained and certified by the IRS."

LTM's VITA program began in 2004 in Coatesville. "We did 15 paper returns that year," Laird said. "Last year, we were able to put $5.4 million back into the community by submitting over 2,600 tax returns."

This year, tax preparation sites are located in Coatesville, Downingtown, Exton, Phoenixville, Pottstown, Royersford and West Chester.

Those who take advantage of the tax services have the option to visit one of the sites, or they may share the needed forms and documents via secure email. VITA also partners with the United Way to provide "My Free Taxes," a free, do-it-yourself online tax filing program.

For in-person filing, individuals will be asked to drop off the needed documents before the taxes are filed. "You come in, fill out some intake paperwork and talk to a preparer and the preparer makes sure you have (all necessary documents)," Laird explained. "All documents are scanned and the taxpayer leaves with the originals."

After the tax return is prepared and reviewed by another volunteer, the taxes are ready to be filed. "They can come back in or choose to sign electronically," Laird noted.

For complete details, including a list of VITA office locations, visit http://www.ChesterCountyFreeTaxes.org. Individuals with questions may also contact Laird at dlaird@QuietRevolution.org or 610-380-9099.