Vermont Volunteers File 1,800 Tax Returns Free Each Year
For three decades, trained volunteers in central Vermont have helped thousands of families navigate confusing tax forms at no cost. This year, they're expecting to assist 1,800 households earning under $69,000.
Tax season doesn't have to mean stress and expensive filing fees, at least not for 1,800 families in central Vermont who get expert help for free.
Capstone Community Action has been offering no-cost tax preparation for 30 years through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. The service covers both federal and state returns for households earning $69,000 or less across Washington, Orange, and Lamoille counties.
Laura Sudhoff has coordinated the program for a decade, managing 30 to 35 volunteers who take pride in getting every return right. "We help thousands of Vermonters each year claim their refunds and credits," she said.
The process is straightforward. Taxpayers schedule an appointment at locations in Barre, Morrisville, Randolph, or Waitsfield, bringing documents like W-2s and property tax bills. Volunteers prepare a draft return, then meet again within two weeks to review and file it together online.
Every volunteer completes IRS training and passes a competency test before helping anyone. They use IRS-provided software and receive funding from the Vermont Legislature and private donations.
The Ripple Effect
The impact goes beyond saving families money on tax prep fees. Sudhoff and her team help people claim refunds and credits they might otherwise miss, putting real money back into household budgets.
Similar programs operate at Vermont's four other community action agencies, covering all 14 counties statewide. Together, they ensure free tax help reaches thousands of Vermont families every spring.
Sudhoff remains available year-round to help when the IRS or Vermont Department of Taxes sends confusing letters. "There is nothing scarier than a letter from the IRS that you don't understand," she said.
The program looks for the taxpayer to feel "respected, heard and confident" after each visit. That approach keeps people returning year after year, building trust that their taxes are filed correctly.
For those slightly above the $69,000 threshold, Capstone sometimes makes exceptions based on individual circumstances. Starting this year, the IRS requires direct deposit for refunds, so clients need bank account information.
Three decades of service means three decades of families keeping more of their hard-earned money where it belongs.
More Images
Based on reporting by Google: volunteers help
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
Spread the positivity! 🌟
Share this good news with someone who needs it
