Frequently Asked Questions

What is VITA?

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to individuals who file simple returns and earn $69,000 or less annually. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic and limited advanced income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals throughout the country, including the City and County of Los Angeles. This program is sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

What if I don’t make enough money to file taxes?

If you don't earn enough income to file taxes, you still may be entitled to a refund from the Earned Income Tax Credit and/or Child Tax Credit! Even though you may typically not file federal taxes, it's still a good idea to utilize VITA to claim your refund. Some tax credits, like the Young Child Tax Credit and Foster Youth Tax Credit, are worth up to $1,189, even if you don’t have income to report.

How do I file a tax return for past years?

If you have not completed your tax return for prior years, you still have time to claim your tax credits! Taxpayers have up to 3 years after the tax filing deadline to file or make any changes to a tax return.

For example, in 2026, taxpayers can file or change tax returns going back to 2023.

How will tax credits affect my other public benefits?

In most cases, receiving tax credits usually doesn't affect eligibility for benefits like CalFresh, Medical, SSI, TANF, or publicly subsidized housing. The return you receive from tax credits doesn't count as extra income and does not impact eligibility for these programs.

What is an ITIN?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a number from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to report and pay federal taxes and assists individuals who cannot get a Social Security Number (SSN) to pay their federal taxes.

What do I need to claim tax credits?

You can find the full list of documents that you need to bring to your VITA appointment at https://www.freetaxprepla.org/help

What if I need help after I file?

If you receive a letter from the IRS or need assistance resolving an issue with the IRS, you can contact a Low-Income Tax Clinic (LITC) for free help.

To contact the Koreatown Youth + Community Center’s (KYCC) Low Income Tax Clinic:

Call (213) 232-2700 for a free consultation
Email litc@kyccla.org

What if I would like to volunteer to help people file their taxes?

Click here for more information on becoming VITA certified.

I have questions specific to my tax situation and would like more information.

Please contact the Free Tax Prep LA site closest to you and make an appointment. Appointments can also be used as consultations for you to better understand how to best proceed with tax filing.