Free Tax Preparation (VITA Program)
Our free tax preparation program (VITA—Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) helps individuals and families file their federal and state taxes at no cost, for those earning under $67,000 annually. This program is possible with support from IRS-certified volunteers.
Appointments are encouraged and prioritized, and availability is limited—please schedule carefully, use the correct name, and cancel at least 48 hours in advance if needed.
How to book your VITA Tax Prep Appointment:
BOOK YOUR VITA TAX PREP APPOINTMENT HERE
You may also schedule your free tax preparation appointment by calling 609-896-1912 or dialing 2-1-1 for support.
For prior-year returns, assistance may require multiple visits.
Where to go for VITA Tax Prep Program
We offer several convenient locations across Mercer County to serve you:
Primary Locations
Boys & Girls Club Spruce Street Community Center (1040 Spruce St, Lawrenceville): Saturdays, 9am–1pm (Feb 7–Apr 11, 2026). Walk-ins welcome. Spanish support available.
Hamilton Public Library (1 Justice Samuel Alito Way, Hamilton): Wednesdays & Thursdays, 8am–11am (Feb 4–Apr 15, 2026). Appointments prioritized; limited walk-ins available. Please enter through the lower-level accessible door.
Additional Locations:
Salvation Army Trenton (575 E State St, Trenton): Tuesdays–Thursdays, 12pm–4pm (Feb 3–Apr 15, 2026). Walk-ins welcome. Spanish support available.
United Way of Greater Mercer County (3444 Quakerbridge Rd, Bldg 3, Ste 102, Hamilton): Tuesdays–Thursdays, 5pm–8pm (Feb 3–Apr 15, 2026). Appointments encouraged; limited walk-ins may be available.
We’re here to help make filing your taxes as simple and stress-free as possible.
To schedule an appointment: CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR VITA TAX PREP APPOINTMENT
Call 609-896-1912 or 2-1-1
Pop Up Tax Days
Free tax help is available at the following locations. Please call ahead to schedule an appointment unless noted otherwise:
Children’s Home Society of NJ (635 S Clinton Ave, Trenton): March 7 (9am–1pm) & March 9 (12pm–4pm). Call or text/WhatsApp 609-960-4793 or 609-331-2755 (text preferred).
Hightstown Memorial Branch Library (114 Franklin St, Hightstown): March 2, March 23 & April 6 (12pm–4pm). Call 609-448-1474.
Princeton Human Services (1 Monument Dr, Princeton): February 23 & March 16 (12pm–4pm). Call 609-688-2055.
Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Mercer County (1440 Parkside Ave, Ewing): March 21 (9am–1pm). Walk-ins welcome.
Before Your Appointment
To help your visit go smoothly, please complete the tax questionnaire in advance and bring it with you:
Download Tax Questionnaire Form
What to Bring & How to Prepare
Bringing the right documents helps ensure your return is completed accurately and efficiently.
Required:
- Photo ID
- Social Security cards or ITIN letters for everyone on the return
- Dates of birth for all listed
- Bank account and routing numbers (for direct deposit)
We’re unable to complete your return without these items.
If applicable:
- W-2s and/or 1099 forms (including unemployment or other income)
- Final pay stub or pension statements
- Retirement account summaries (e.g., 5498 forms)
- Education forms (1098-T)
- Health insurance forms (1095-A, B, or C) and coverage details
- Medical expenses (totaled)
- Charitable contributions (totaled, with receipts for $250+)
- Rent or mortgage interest and property tax information
- A copy of your 2024 tax return
- Details of any major life changes (marriage, divorce, loss of spouse)
- Spouse’s Social Security number (if filing separately)
Bringing these documents will help make your appointment quicker and ensure you receive the most accurate return possible.
IRS RESOURCES
- IRS.gov
- Filing Your Taxes
- Where’s My Refund
- Taxpayer Advocate Service
- Contact Your Local IRS Office
- Reasons to Use Direct Deposit for a Tax Refund
- IRS Newsroom
Need Additional Support?
For questions or more information:
Call 609-896-1912 or email carrie.pabreza@uwgmc.org
