The United Way of Henry County and Martinsville announced the successful completion of the 2026 tax season, crediting the dedication of its VITA volunteers.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program finished the season with 2,021 tax returns filed, resulting in $2,120,101 in federal refunds and $505,250 in tax preparation savings.
Those totals include individuals who received filing assistance as well as residents who ultimately did not need to file taxes, helping them avoid unnecessary commercial preparation fees.
“Our volunteers are the lifeblood of this initiative and keep things running smoothly,” the organization said in a release.
Several volunteers said they continue participating because they believe it is important to keep money earned in Martinsville-Henry County within the community and supporting local businesses.
One longtime volunteer, Kathy, said, “Everything is run by IRS tax standards, no corners are ever cut, and we take pride in finding every deduction possible for the individuals and families who walk through the door day after day and year after year.”
Another longtime volunteer, David, said he hopes younger volunteers will train for future tax seasons.
“This is a great opportunity for high school seniors and college students looking for hands-on experience,” David said.
United Way also shared a success story from a local family that used its tax refund to pay rent for the remainder of the year and received one free month from its landlord.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program remains free to qualified individuals in the Martinsville-Henry County area. The service is provided each year through volunteer IRS-certified tax preparers working with United Way of Henry County and Martinsville.
For more information about the program or becoming a certified tax preparer, contact Lisa Frick at 276-403-5976 or visit www.UnitedWayofHCM.org/VITA.
