Tax season can be stressful, confusing, and expensive for many individuals and families. That’s why Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin offers free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, helping community members file their taxes accurately while keeping more of the money they’ve earned.
Through trained, IRS-certified volunteers and convenient appointments, this program helps thousands of people each year navigate tax season with confidence and peace of mind.
What Is the VITA Program?
Goodwill’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free income tax preparation for individuals and families with low to moderate incomes. The program is offered in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue and the IRS, ensuring high-quality, reliable service.
Certified volunteers assist taxpayers with preparing and filing their returns while also helping them claim important tax credits they may qualify for.
These services can make a significant difference. Many households rely on their tax refunds to catch up on bills, build savings, or invest in important life needs.
Real Impact in Our Community
The impact of Goodwill’s VITA program goes far beyond filing paperwork.
Each year, some 30 volunteers across Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin’s 14-county service area help prepare more than 1,400 tax returns, saving community members over $300,000 in tax preparation fees.
Even more importantly, these filings help return significant funds to local families. Through the program, last year alone, taxpayers receive over $1.5 million in refunds, money that stays in the community and supports local households.
For many people, that refund can help cover essential expenses such as rent, groceries, childcare, transportation, or paying down debt.
One VITA participant shared:
“I assisted my disabled brother in helping to get his taxes completed. I don’t know what I would do without it. I am very grateful for the service.”
Stories like this highlight how access to free, trusted tax assistance can provide both financial relief and peace of mind.
Why Free Tax Preparation Matters
Professional tax preparation can cost hundreds of dollars, which can be a barrier for many households. Goodwill’s VITA program removes that barrier by providing no-cost services from IRS-certified volunteers.
Beyond saving money, volunteers also help taxpayers understand their returns and claim credits they may otherwise miss. These can include valuable programs like tax credits for working individuals and families.
By helping people access their full refunds, the program strengthens financial stability for individuals while supporting the broader community.
What Services Are Included?
Goodwill’s VITA program offers a range of helpful services designed to make tax filing simple and accessible:
- Free tax preparation
- Appointments with IRS-certified volunteers, typically 15 minutes
- Easy online appointment scheduling
- Support for individuals and families with low to moderate income
Appointments ensure each person receives dedicated time and personalized assistance during the filing process.
Find a VITA Appointment Location Near You
Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin offers free VITA tax preparation at eight convenient locations across the region. Appointments are available at:
- Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin Home Office – 1302 Mendota Street, Madison
- Latino Chamber of Commerce – 5262 Anton Dr, Fitchburg
- Goodwill Northside – 2901 N. Sherman Ave, Madison
- Montello Human Services Building – 428 Underwood Ave, Montello
- Fort Atkinson Goodwill / Madison College – 827 Banker Rd, Fort Atkinson
- Portage Library – 253 W. Edgewater St, Portage
- Richland Center Goodwill – 2946 Highway 14 East, Richland Center
- Lussier Community Education Center – 55 S. Gammon Road, Madison (new location)
For added flexibility, individuals can also file their return remotely, securely sharing documents with IRS-certified volunteers who prepare the return offsite. See link provided below.
How the Program Supports Goodwill’s Mission
Free tax preparation is just one of the many ways Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin supports individuals working toward financial stability.
This work connects directly to Goodwill’s broader mission of helping people live, work, and thrive in their community through programs like job training, supported employment, and stable housing.
Ready to File Your Taxes?
If you or someone you know could benefit from free tax preparation, Goodwill’s VITA program is here to help. Trained, IRS-certified volunteers are ready to guide individuals and families through the process and ensure returns are filed accurately.
Appointments can fill up quickly. If currently fully booked, you can join the waitlist to be notified if a spot opens up. If an in-person appointment doesn’t fit your schedule, you can also file your return remotely, securely sharing your documents with volunteers who prepare your return offsite.
Learn more or join the waitlist today to take advantage of this valuable community resource.