Preparing for an Appointment

Make Sure You Have These Items In Your Possession For Your Appointment:

• A social security card for EACH and EVERY household member (WE CANNOT FILE WITHOUT PROOF OR 1099-SA) 

• Picture ID for each taxpayer 

The first step in preparing your tax return is filling out an informational form you'll be provided upon arrival. You may also download a pdf version of the form, print and bring the completed document to your appointment.  Most clients complete the form when they arrive for their appointment.

If Applicable, You MUST Bring The Below Items In Order For UMBC VITA To Prepare Your Tax Return:

• W-2 forms for all jobs worked in the tax year.  

• Bank routing and account number to direct deposit your refund.  

• Child care provider name, address, and tax ID number

• Any document or information about money you have received from the IRS or Maryland

• All 1099 forms for other income, if any.

• Any other tax related documents you have received

• Expenses for a small business, if any.

• Form 1095-A if you received the Premium Tax Credit to help pay health insurance. ( Double check which type of insurance that you have, if your insurance would qualify for the tax form) 

You SHOULD Bring The Following As It Helps The Tax Preparer Answer Your Questions:

• A copy of the last two years of tax returns

• *Important Detail* If your address has changed since the previous tax year, make sure to update it on your intake form and to mention to the tax preparer that has occurred. 

Process At Your Appointment:

At your appointment, you'll submit the informational form, your identification and your tax documents for review.  If you prefer to submit your tax documents in advance, please email VITA@umbc.edu for a secure login to upload your documents.  A volunteer will review your materials to match you with a volunteer preparer who is certified in the tax topics on your tax return.

You’ll join your tax preparer at a workstation to complete the preparation process.  The tax preparer will prepare your tax return then a second volunteer will check it (called Quality Review).  The tax preparer will walk you through all the information on your return because the accuracy of the tax return is your responsibility.  Once you are satisfied with the content, you’ll sign giving permission for the return to be electronically filed with the IRS and Maryland Comptroller.

Then You're DONE!

For more detailed information, you may wish to visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau guide about tax filing.