The volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) center opened its doors once again on January 29, 2018. They are a partnership between the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the military that provides free federal and state income tax preparation every year for service members and their families.

“Our objective is to provide free tax services for active duty, retirees, dependents, or anyone related to the military so that they are financially ready and able to carry on their mission,” stated Sgt. Andrew C. Wilson, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division.

The VITA tax center will be operational from January 29, 2018 to May 1, 2018. Their hours of operation will be Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. They accept all forms of income except farm income and certain capital gains or losses. The deadline given by the IRS to complete taxes is April 18, 2018.

“You will need to bring social security cards for yourself and anyone you intend to claim, W-2’s from all forms of income, and receipts from any deductions you might be expecting,” said Wilson.

Service members and families should also be mindful that they need to bring two forms of photo identification as well as a filled out Intake/Interview and Quality Review sheet to expedite the check in process, which can be found on their website. VITA will be sure to make special accommodations to deploying service members.

“We are more than ready to take everyone in, it’s an important service and we are happy to do it,” concluded Wilson.

The VITA tax center is located at Mainside, building 1687. For further information feel free to contact a VITA clerk at (760) 763-2517 or visit their website at www.pendleton.marines.mil/Services/Income-Tax-Assistance

For specific tax questions, information can also be found at www.irs.gov or by calling the IRS help line at 1-800-829-1040.