Tax Preparation Assistance - United Way VITA

FISH of SanCap is once again partnering with United Way to bring free tax preparation to island residents through the United Way Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The service is available to individuals and families with a household income of $70,000 or less, and includes free preparation, e-filing, and direct deposit by IRS-certified United Way volunteers.

Appointments are available every other Friday, Feb. 6–Apr. 3, 2026, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Sanibel Public Library (770 Dunlop Road). Appointments are required and can be booked at unitedwaylee.org/freetaxprep or by calling 2-1-1 or 239-433-3900.
 
What to Bring:

• Photo ID for all filers
• Social Security/Medicare or ITIN cards for everyone on the return
• Birthdates for all listed
• All income forms (W-2s, 1099s, SSA, pensions, unemployment)
• Last year’s return (if available)
• Dependent and childcare documentation and  
• Total paid for daycare & the provider's business Employer Identification Number
• Health coverage forms (1095 A)
• Bank details for direct deposit
• If married and filing jointly, the spouse must be present to sign the return
• Tip: If you earned overtime in 2025, bring your final pay stub—it can affect your refund.

 
FISH and United Way remind folks that direct deposit matters. Without bank info, including routing and account numbers, paper refunds can be delayed six weeks or more. Additionally, to earn the Child Tax Credit, both the taxpayer (or spouse) and the qualifying child must have valid Social Security numbers. Those with a filing status of married Filing Separately may not be eligible for certain provisions, including the senior deduction and reduced tax on tips or overtime. If you are a student or making payments on a student loan, please bring your tuition statement from school (1098-T) and your student loan interest statement (1098-E).