Free Tax Preparation in Baldwin and Wilkes

Do you need help maximizing your refund? UGA Extension is here to help! Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, IRS-certified preparers can prepare your federal and state tax returns, free of charge. VITA is designed to assist qualified taxpayers and to ensure that seniors, limited-income families, and others receive every available benefit.

How does it work?

Two appointments are required at our office to complete the procedure. During the initial meeting, you will provide the tax preparer with all the necessary paperwork and information so they can prepare your return. You will make another appointment, a week later, to review, sign, and submit your return.

Can I still get benefits if I'm not a senior or from a low-income family?

Probably, in that case! We are not able to prepare taxes in a few specific circumstances. These circumstances consist of:

• Have income from rental property

• Own a farm and have farm income

• Have a small business with a profit in 2023 over $25,000 or net loss of any amount, or hold inventory

• Are married filing separately without spouse’s birthdate or social security number

• Are an active military member

I am not a Baldwin and Wilkes County resident--can I still benefit?

Yes! We can prepare federal and state returns for all 50 states. You must be physically present at both appointments to participate.

How do I make my appointments?

Call our Baldwin office at 478-445-4394 or the Wilkes office at 706-678-2332 or email Brittany.Harrison@uga.edu in Baldwin or Ida.Jackson@uga.edu in Wilkes.

What do I need to bring with me?

• Please plan on bringing the following documents:

• Photo ID for taxpayer and spouse

• Social Security cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for you, your spouse, and all dependents,

• Birthdates for you, your spouse, and all dependents

• Proof of income (W-2s for all jobs last year, 1099s, statements for prizes, scholarships/fellowships, or lottery/gambling winnings, Social Security)

• Documentation if itemizing (Ex. Mortgage interest, property tax bills, vehicle tax, charity donations, medical expenses)

• If applicable, child care or dependent care expenses

• Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit if you expect a refund

• If you have a copy of last year’s tax return, please bring it (not required)