PANHANDLE COMMUNITY SERVICES

Panhandle Community Services is a non-profit, community-based organization offering various programs and services to assist low-income families. Our programs and services are designed and implemented to target specific poverty-related issues to bridge the gap between poverty and self-sufficiency. PCS provides a broad base of support for all residents living in the Texas Panhandle. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is one of the tools PCS uses to bridge the gap.

PCS-VITA leverages the skills of volunteers to:

• Provide no-cost tax assistance to eligible taxpayers across the Panhandle
• Educate taxpayers about tax benefits
• Promote awareness about the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit
• Connect taxpayers with programs and services to help improve their financial stability

PCS-VITA operates as an intake site. Clients are seen by appointment for their initial visit. Volunteers complete an intake interview by reviewing the intake forms and tax documents provided by the client. Returns are prepared and reviewed remotely by IRS-certified volunteers who communicate with the clients throughout the process. Clients are given two options for reviewing and signing their returns. 1) Complete the process by downloading a copy of their return and signing it electronically. 2) Return to the site, where they will be provided a paper copy of their return, and the Site Coordinator will review the return with them and have them sign at that time. All returns are e-filed regardless of the review process chosen.