United Way Begins VITA Program Offering Free Tax Help in South Texas

McALLEN, Texas — United Way of South Texas launched its annual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program on Wednesday, Jan. 21, offering free income tax preparation services to eligible individuals and families across South Texas.

The program provides IRS-certified volunteers to help households earning $67,000 or less prepare and file their taxes at no cost, with a limited number of IRS-mandated exceptions. In 2025, more than 150 volunteers assisted 3,388 households, generating more than $5.1 million in refunds and saving residents an estimated $1 million in tax preparation fees.

Volunteer tax assistance will be available from Jan. 26 through April 11 at 14 locations across Hidalgo and Starr counties, including public libraries, schools, churches, community centers and college campuses. Appointments can be scheduled online at 2026VITA.as.me or by calling 956-686-6331. Appointments in Roma can be scheduled by calling 956-422-3549.

“In the Rio Grande Valley, where many families are working hard just to make ends meet, programs like VITA are a lifeline,” said Cesar N. Rodriguez, a United Way board member and McAllen city official. He said keeping tax refunds in the community helps families cover expenses and build financial stability.

United Way is also partnering with AmeriCorps NCCC to support the program. Eight AmeriCorps members trained at the IRS advanced level will assist during the 13-week tax season. Since 2004, United Way of South Texas has hosted more than 30 AmeriCorps NCCC members.

The VITA program is supported by multiple sponsors, including Frost Bank, H-E-B, IBC Bank, Lone Star National Bank, Magic Valley Electric Cooperative, PlainsCapital Bank, PNC Bank, Security Service Federal Credit Union, Texas Regional Bank, Vantage Bank and the Internal Revenue Service.

For more information, residents may contact United Way of South Texas at 956-686-6331.