(From the United Way of Hancock County)

Volunteers are needed to help run a free tax preparation program that is expected to return over $1 million to the community.

United Way of Hancock County is seeking volunteer tax preparers and greeters for its free income tax preparation program, called VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance). This IRS program serves income-eligible individuals who live, work or attend college in Hancock County and may not otherwise be able to afford to have their taxes prepared and filed. The United Way is again collaborating with the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library and 50 North, who will host the service at their sites.

The United Way is recruiting volunteers to serve as tax preparers and greeters at both the library and 50 North. Morning, afternoon and evening shifts are available Mondays through Fridays, plus Saturday mornings. Volunteers schedule their own hours during whatever days or months they are available.

Tax preparers will prepare and electronically file taxes for clients. No experience is necessary. Volunteers can work through training online or may attend training sessions with the VITA site coordinator in December to become certified. All new volunteers will work with an experienced tax preparer until they are comfortable with the program.

Greeters are needed to welcome clients as they arrive for appointments. Responsibilities include checking taxpayers in and ensuring that they have the necessary paperwork for their appointment.

During the 2025 VITA season, nearly 1,100 state and federal tax returns were filed by a group of 23 VITA volunteers. United Way of Hancock County has won a large federal grant that will allow for expansion of the program during the 2026 tax season to assist even more community members.

Appointments for the 2026 VITA season will begin Feb. 2 and will continue into the days leading up to Tax Day, based on demand.

Contact Bridgit at accounting@uwhancock.org or call 419-423-1432 to sign up as a volunteer or for more information.