While Oklahoma families are preparing for the holiday season, it is also a good time of year to start gathering tax documents in preparation for filing taxes this coming spring.
To help qualified families prepare their taxes free of charge, the Oklahoma State University Extension is partnering with the United Way of North Central Oklahoma to bring the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program to McClain County.
VITA provides free tax preparation for individuals and families with household income of $75,000 or less in 2025, as well as for older adults (age 60 or older), persons with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency.
It’s a good idea to start gathering documents now so you’re ready when VITA sites open.
Mengya Wang, OSU Extension personal finance specialist, said some people may not file taxes because they think they may owe money or that their income is so low that it isn’t worth the trouble.
“What they don’t realize is that they may qualify for the Earned Income Credit, the Child Tax Credit or other tax credits,” Wang said. “If this is the case, they’ll likely get money back. The volunteers at the VITA sites will help them get the money they qualify for.”
Wang also noted that tax refund money should be used to build savings or reduce debt. It is not financially wise to buy things now on credit and anticipate paying for them next spring with a tax return.
The free tax-help services will be available from late January through mid-April. Taxpayers should bring the following documents to the appointment:
• Social Security card or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers for all household members
• Photo identification for the taxpayer and spouse
• Income statements: W-2s and any 1099s (and other income, if applicable)
• Health/education/childcare documents (if applicable) • Prior year tax return, if available Contact the McClain County OSU Extension office at 405-527-2174 for more information.
VITA volunteers are certified by the Internal Revenue Service.
Part of Extension’s mission is to help Oklahomans, and providing this service to the residents is one way McClain County Extension can do that.
OSU Extension uses research- based information to help all Oklahomans solve local issues and concerns, promote leadership and manage resources wisely throughout the state’s 77 counties. Most information is available at little to no cost.
