This year, the Washtenaw County Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program assisted in preparing 1,392 tax returns in the 2026 tax season, a 31% increase over last year. Refunds and tax preparation fees avoided came to a total of $3,270,430, an increase of 65% over the prior year.

RCAA supported VITA’s 2026 tax season with financial funding ($2,500 from the Club and an additional $1,493 grant from District 6380) and volunteers for the VITA program in Washtenaw County, which runs out of the former United Way of Washtenaw County office building on Platt Road in Ann Arbor. The facility is open to VITA for two shifts per day from Tuesday through Saturday during tax season, and most Mondays for two shifts during the tax offseason. It has proven to be a perfect venue for the VITA program and the financial contribution from RCAA is directed toward helping with the costs of operating the building – utility costs including internet, cleaning, maintenance, insurance and front-desk personnel during operating hours.

The aim of the VITA program is not just to maximize tax returns but also to build financial literacy and confidence. Even for taxpayers with no or minimal income, VITA ensures they are benefiting from tax credits for which they may be eligible such as the Michigan Home Heating Credit, the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, and the Earned Income Tax Credit.