Eligible tax filers can have their basic 2022 income tax return prepared and electronically filed free by IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers under the Volunteer Tax Assistance program (VITA).

VITA has provided this service nationwide for more than 50 years. It is a federal program to help low- to moderate-income individuals age 65+ and their families get all allowable federal and state deductions and credits.

This program is for basic tax returns for less than $66,000 annual income that does not include rental property or digital currency. Self-employed taxpayers are eligible if there are no paid employees, inventory or depreciation, and the business does not operate at a net loss. Farm and those who are married and filing separate returns are not accepted.

Tax preparation sessions take place at Humboldt Senior Resource Center’s Eureka Heritage Café, 1910 California St., by appointment only.

Appointments for 2023 will be scheduled Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. beginning Feb. 7 until April 13. To make an appointment, call 707-443-9747, x1240 starting January 3, 2023.

Bring a photo ID and Social Security card or other government document with the name and Social Security number or ITIN for everyone on the tax return. Learn more about VITA at benefits.gov/benefit/1543.

AARP offers a similar program through the Fortuna Senior Center. Call 707-726-9203 for more information. The McKinleyville Senior Center will not be providing a tax service this year.