Mohave Today

CHANDLER, Ariz. - The City of Chandler has announced a partnership with Mesa United Way and Azura to provide free tax preparation and filing services to working families who earned less than $64,000 in 2023. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program aims to assist those in need and ensure they receive the necessary support during the tax season.

According to Mayor Kevin Hartke, this collaboration will offer valuable assistance to Chandler residents. He states, "We are committed to helping our community members who may require help with their tax preparation. By joining forces with Mesa United Way and Azura, we can ensure that working families have access to the necessary resources without any financial burden."

The VITA Program will operate at eight tax preparation sites located in Chandler, starting from January 29 until April 13. Seven of these sites will provide free tax assistance on a first-come, first-serve basis, while the Sun Lakes location will require an appointment. The sites include:

- AZCEND Chandler, 345 S. California St., 4-7 p.m. Wednesdays

- Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, 2133 W. Elliot Road, 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays

- Chandler CARE Center, 777 E. Galveston St., noon-4 p.m. Fridays; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays

- Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Pecos Campus, 2626 E. Pecos Road, RM LIB-104, 6-9 p.m. Wednesday

- Chandler-Gilbert Community College - Sun Lakes Center, 25105 S. Alma School Road, 9 a.m. to noon Fridays

- Hamilton Library, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., 9 a.m. to noon Thursdays and Fridays

- Salvation Army, 85 E. Saragosa St., 1-6 p.m. Thursdays

- Sunset Library, 4930 W. Ray Road, 9 a.m. to noon Mondays and Tuesdays

The Chandler Downtown Library will also host the AARP Tax-Aide program starting from February 1 until April 15. AARP Tax-Aide provides free tax filing assistance to low- to middle-income taxpayers, with a focus on individuals aged 50 and older. However, there is no age requirement, and AARP membership is not necessary. The program's hours of service are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, with additional hours from 3-7 p.m. on Wednesdays. Appointments are required and can be scheduled through the Chandler Public Library.

For those who prefer an online option, MyFreeTaxes.com offers free basic tax filing services to the public.

Residents are encouraged to review the complete list of required documents and instructions for tax return drop-off and pick-up on the Chandler VITA Program website. More information on other East Valley VITA sites can be found on the VITA Program website.

This collaboration between the City of Chandler, Mesa United Way, and Azura demonstrates a commitment to supporting the community and providing essential services to those in need during tax season.

Contact:

Stephanie Romero

Public Information Officer, City of Chandler

480-782-2231