After more than two decades of delivering free, IRS‑certified tax preparation to local families, the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties (CF/UWVFC) is expanding tax service to the region through a new partnership with AARP Foundation Tax-Aide — the nation’s largest free tax assistance program.
For over 20 years, CF/UWVFC’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program has helped residents file accurate returns, claim critical credits, and keep more of their hard‑earned income. In that time, volunteers have completed more than 44,000 tax returns and returned over $50 million to local households — strengthening financial stability for thousands of families across Volusia and Flagler Counties. During the 2026 tax season alone, more than 100 trained volunteers contributed 5,000 hours of service, preparing 1,800 returns and generating more than $2.1 million in refunds.
Beginning with the 2026 tax year, CF/UWVFC will transition its tax preparation services to the AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide Program. This shift will expand the number of service locations and — for the first time — remove all income and age restrictions. Every resident of Volusia and Flagler Counties will now be eligible for free, high‑quality tax preparation.
“This partnership is the natural next step in our long‑standing commitment to helping our neighbors keep more of what they earn,” said Courtney Edgcomb, President and CEO of CF/UWVFC. “AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide allows us to reach more people, strengthen volunteer support, and build on everything VITA has accomplished.”
The AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide Program also enhances support for volunteers, offering Chromebooks for use during tax preparation, mileage reimbursement, and expanded training — including a three‑day tax preparation course and a five‑day tax law training covering ethics, policies, and procedures.
Appointments for the 2026‑tax‑year filing season will open in early 2027. Updated scheduling information will be available at connectvfc.org/our-impact/vita. Free DIY filing remains available year‑round at myfreetaxes.com.
