University of Scranton Students to Offer Free Income Tax Assistance University of Scranton accounting students will assist local residents with their tax returns for free as part of the VITA program. Lackawanna and Wayne County residents, whose households earned $67,000 or less in 2025, can receive free assistance in completing and filing their federal, state and local tax returns from University of Scranton accounting students through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. University students have assisted residents with low and moderate incomes who need help with their basic tax returns for more than 30 years. Walk-in service at Brennan Hall on the University’s campus begins Monday, Feb. 4, and will end on Wednesday, April 8. The VITA service is offered on a first-come, first-served basis during scheduled hours. Appointments are not available at the University. Residents can schedule appointments at other locations by contacting the United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties by visiting its website or calling 570-602-3133 or 1-866-662-8887. Residents who qualify for the free VITA service are asked to bring the following items: a valid photo ID; Social Security cards for all taxpayers and dependents; all W2 forms; last year’s tax returns; all 1099 forms (interest, dividends, pensions); unemployment paperwork; Form 8332 for non-custodial parents; information related to income and expenses (business, rental properties, sale of stocks); a personal banking account check if direct deposit is desired; documentation related to health insurance for themselves and anyone on the tax return, such as Form 1095-A, -B or –C; and real estate tax receipts if you qualify for the rent/tax rebate. Walk-in VITA service without an appointment is available in Room 111 of Brennan Hall, Madison Avenue, on the University’s campus on Mondays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, noon to 5 p.m.; Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Fridays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Service begins on Monday, Feb. 4, and continues to Wednesday, April 8, except for the week of March 16-20, when the University is closed for Spring Break. The VITA office may also close due to inclement weather. The University reserves the right to cap the number of walk-in residents they can serve within a single day. Residents with questions may call the University at 570-941-4045.
United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, and Pike, VITA Program Enters 19th Year United Way Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike is proud to announce the return of its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, beginning on February 3, 2026. This free service is available to qualifying individuals and families, offering assistance with tax preparation to help maximize refunds and ease the burden of filing. The VITA Program provides free tax preparation services to individuals and families with an annual income of $67,000 or less. Certified volunteers trained by the IRS will assist in preparing and electronically filing both federal and state tax returns. This service is designed to ensure participants receive the full benefits they are entitled to, including tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC). “We’re thrilled to, once again, support and administer the VITA Program. Continuing to help families and individuals in our community navigate the tax season with ease,” said Angela Bassani, ED.D., CPA, President & CEO of United Way Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike. “This program not only saves participants money on tax preparation fees but also helps them take advantage of critical tax credits that can provide much-needed financial relief.” Program Details: Start Date: February 3, 2026 Eligibility: Households earning $67,000 or less annually Appointments: Appointments are required. Call 570.602.3133, 866.662.8887, or visit uwlc.net/initiative/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita to schedule. The biggest change in this year’s VITA season is the main location. The majority of appointments will be held at United Way Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike’s headquarters on, 615 Jefferson Ave. in Scranton. Free parking is available in the JCC parking. VITA will also be “hitting the road,” like always with the following mobile locations for commuting convenience: Monday, Feb. 23 – Woodloch Springs Country Club, Hawley Monday, March 2, North Pocono Library, Moscow Tuesday, March 3 – Pike County. Admin. Bldg, Milford Wednesday, March 4 – Abington Fire Hall, Clark Summit Thursday, March 5 & Friday, March 6 – Trinity Episcopal Church, Carbondale For more information about the VITA Program, eligibility requirements, or volunteer opportunities, please visit https://uwlc.net/initiative/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita/.
