United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, and Pike, VITA Program Enters 19th Year

Members News

February 6, 2026

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:

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/.