Virus precautions alter free tax preparation program

A program that offers free tax help to people who meet certain qualifications will be operated again in Oconee County during this tax preparation season, but with some changes due to precautions against the COVID-19 spread. The Oconee United Way will operate “VITA” — the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program in the county.  But here’s the key change.  “We will not have people come, sit down in person.  It will be through a drop-off method,” says LaShauna Harrison, United Way COO, said.  To start, a taxpayer calls the 2-1-1 number.  You receive an appointment to drop off your tax documents.  A certified tax preparer will prepare the return and the taxpayer is given a date within 24-48 hours to report to sign pick up and sign the return.