Written by Karl Vogl ll For many individuals and families, filing taxes can be a complicated and costly process. Between shifting tax laws, expensive preparation fees and confusing requirements, the process can deter people from filing altogether or reduce the refunds they depend on. In York County, a volunteer-driven program is working to change that. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, known as VITA, offers free tax preparation services to eligible taxpayers, helping ensure they receive the full refunds and credits they have earned. Operated locally out of Pathways Community Center , and Winthrop University the service is staffed entirely by IRS-certified volunteers and is designed to make tax filing accessible, accurate and free. VITA also partners with the City of Rock Hill and United Way “We help the community file tax returns electronically, and we double-check everything to make sure taxpayers receive all the credits they’re entitled to,” said site coordinator Bill Perry. “There’s no charge, we’re 100% volunteers.” VITA sites generally serve individuals who earn about $69,000 or less, as well as people with disabilities, limited English-speaking taxpayers and those who need assistance navigating the filing process. Services include preparation of basic returns, W-2 income, most 1099 forms and access to key credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit. Some locations also assist with prior-year returns. For many residents, avoiding preparation fees can make a meaningful difference. Erin Freel, a York County resident and single mother, said she first learned about VITA while working at City Hall and has relied on it since. “I thought it was incredible that there was a place people could go and get help without being charged,” she said. “A lot of private tax services charge too much, especially when you have additional credits.” Those added fees can cut into refunds that families rely on for essential expenses. “As a single mom who doesn’t receive child support, the child tax credit is a big deal,” Freel said. “But some places charge more just to process those credits, the same money you actually need.” Using VITA has allowed her to keep more of her refund and better support her children. “Having a free service means I get to keep what I’ve worked for,” she said. “That allows me to provide more for my kids. That’s a big deal.” The York County VITA site recently relocated from City Hall to Pathways Community Center, a move that coordinators say has improved access and increased participation. “Being at Pathways has made it easier for the community to come in and get services,” Perry said. “It’s a space that’s already centered around serving people, so it’s a natural fit.” Since the move, the site has seen an increase in the number of taxpayers seeking assistance. Still, challenges remain. Assistant coordinator Janice Louttit said one of the most common issues is that filers arrive without the necessary documentation. To complete a return, taxpayers are typically required to bring a government-issued photo ID, Social Security cards or ITINs for all household members, income documents such as W-2s or 1099s, a copy of the previous year’s tax return, and banking information for direct deposit. Married couples filing jointly must both be present. Louttit said recent changes in tax laws have also added complexity for both taxpayers and preparers. “After COVID, there were a lot of new programs and ongoing changes to the tax code,” she said. “Even recently, some updates were implemented so quickly that people’s documents don’t always reflect what non-taxable W-2 income is like overtime and tips.” Despite those challenges, she said the work remains deeply rewarding. “When I retired, I knew this is what I wanted to do,” Louttit said. “This is my favorite time of the year.” For taxpayers like Freel, the value of the program goes beyond cost savings. “It’s a safe environment,” she said. “They’re honest, they explain everything clearly, and they’re there to help. It shouldn’t be complicated.” During the 2026 tax season VITA processed 5,263 returns representing 2,843 clients. Though the tax season is now over, the York County VITA site is seeking additional volunteers to meet growing demand. Community members can receive free IRS certification and training for next year, with opportunities to assist in tax preparation, client intake and site support. Those interested in volunteering for the 2027 tax season are encouraged to connect with the VITA program at Pathways Community Center and help ensure more families can access the support they need.