Free tax help at UMBC VITA
Everything you need to know before tax season: who qualifies, how appointments work, when we’re open, and what to bring.
Who we can help
You’re likely eligible if…
- Household income under the IRS limit — the IRS updates this limit each year and most recently was $69,000. See the current number on IRS.gov.
- A Social Security card for everyone on the return — bring the physical card for each person.
- You booked an appointment — we can’t accept walk-ins.
We can’t prepare returns that…
- Belong to F, J, M, or Q visa holders — UMBC VITA isn’t certified for these returns. International students and scholars can get free help from our partner NRVTAP.
- Include small-business losses — certain self-employment losses are out of scope.
- Involve virtual currency or rental income — crypto transactions and rental property income are out of scope.
Not sure whether you qualify, or need a prior-year return prepared? Email VITA@umbc.edu and we’ll help you figure it out.
How appointments work
Note: appointments for the 2027 tax season open in late January. Check back then and book online. If you need to file in the meantime, use the free options on our Resources page.
- Check that your return is in scope — confirm your situation is one VITA can prepare (see the eligibility list above).
- Book through 211 Maryland — scheduling opens in late January. Call 211 or 410-234-8008, or book online through the CASH Campaign. Walk-ins can’t be accommodated.
- Bring your required items — a Social Security card for every household member and a photo ID for each taxpayer, or you’ll be asked to reschedule.
- Meet a certified preparer — a volunteer prepares your return, a second volunteer quality-reviews it, and you sign to e-file. Plan for about 60–90 minutes.
Schedule & location
Tax-prep dates for the 2027 tax season
In a typical season we host free tax-prep on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., February through early April. The 2027 dates will be posted here once scheduling opens.
We announce on Instagram the day scheduling opens — follow @umbcvita.
Where to find us
- Apartment Community Center — on the UMBC campus in Catonsville, MD.
- Finding it: directions go out with your appointment confirmation. Staff can also give directions by phone during operating hours.
- Hours: Saturdays, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., by appointment. Outside Saturday appointments we don’t have an office — reach us by email or phone.
- Questions: VITA@umbc.edu · 443-612-4829
What to bring
Identification (required)
- Photo ID for each taxpayer (and your spouse, if filing jointly)
- A Social Security card for every household member on the return
Income documents
- W-2s for all jobs worked during the year
- All 1099 forms (interest, unemployment, retirement, other income)
If it applies to you
- Records for any credits or deductions you plan to claim
- Child care provider’s name, address & tax ID number
- Form 1095-A, if you have Affordable Care Act health insurance
- Income and expense records for your small business
- Any letters from the IRS or the Maryland Comptroller
For your refund
- All federal refunds must be paid electronically
- Bank routing and account numbers
Filing jointly? Both spouses must be present to sign the return.