Free Tax Help Still Available from Goodwill's VITA program, Volunteers Needed

For Immediate Release July 31, 2025

Media Contacts
Georgia Gough, Vice President of Workforce Development & Community Partnerships
Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan Heartland, Inc.
ggough@goodwillcmh.org
269-788-6500

Kristin Graham, Account Manager
LKF Marketing
mediareleases@lkfmarketing.com
269-349-4440 office
269-377-9085 cell

Free Tax Help Still Available from Goodwill's VITA Program, Volunteers Needed

BATTLE CREEK, Mich.—Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland (Goodwill CMH) is once again supporting the IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program to offer free tax preparation services to qualifying individuals and families across the region.

Through VITA, IRS-certified volunteers provide free electronic tax filing for taxpayers who earn less than $67,000 annually, persons with disabilities, limited English-speaking taxpayers, and active or retired military members. Goodwill CMH helps recruit and train volunteers, hosts program sites, and spreads the word to eligible community members.

“This free service can save families an average of $250 per return,” said Kenneth Bauer, President and CEO of Goodwill CMH. “It’s an important way we help ensure more income stays in the hands of those who need it most.”

In addition to the regular tax season offerings, Goodwill CMH is currently extending its services with late-season appointments now available in Battle Creek and Coldwater for those who missed the April 15 filing deadline and have yet to file their 2022, 2023, or 2024 tax returns.

Goodwill CMH is also calling on civic-minded individuals to join the VITA volunteer team. No tax experience is necessary, and all training is provided free of charge. Volunteers can serve in a variety of roles, including as a tax preparer, greeter, interpreter, site administrator, or quality reviewer. Training is available online and in person.

Taxpayers interested in learning more about their eligibility or making an appointment should call (269) 788-6500, ext. 2037.

Changing Lives Through the Power of Work
For late-season appointments or to volunteer in Battle Creek, call (269) 788-6500, ext. 2018 or 2037.
For appointments and volunteer opportunities in Coldwater, call (517) 279-6565.

General eligibility and volunteer questions can also be submitted by emailing vita@goodwillcmh.org or by visiting https://www.goodwillcmh.org/program-services/free-income-tax-preparation/.

Appointments for the 2025 tax season will be available starting Jan. 15, 2026, at seven area locations. Dates and site information will be announced in December.

For more information about Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland and its services, visit www.goodwillcmh.org.

Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland is a private, CARF-accredited nonprofit organization that has served the community since 1953. Through workforce development programs, Goodwill helps individuals with barriers to employment experience the power of work by providing training, support services, and meaningful career opportunities. Goodwill CMH’s service area includes Barry, Branch, Calhoun, Eaton, Ingham, and Jackson counties as well as portions of others. The organization also operates 13 retail stores and 10 donation centers.