Free Tax Preparation at PCSI
PCSI offers free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
VITA helps eligible individuals and families prepare and file their federal, state, and local tax returns at no cost. IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers can also help taxpayers claim refunds and tax credits they have earned without paying costly tax preparation fees.
PCSI offers VITA as part of our work helping Pittsburgh residents strengthen their financial stability and connect with resources that can support their longer-term goals.
PCSI is a member of the Just Harvest-United Way Free Tax Prep Coalition, which provides free tax preparation services throughout Allegheny County and surrounding communities.
VITA is designed for people who may need help preparing their own tax returns. The IRS generally offers VITA services to:
- People who generally make about $70,244 or less
- People with disabilities
- Taxpayers with limited English proficiency
VITA is not limited to people with earned income. Depending on their tax situation, the program may also help retirees, caregivers, people receiving unemployment income, and others whose returns fall within VITA guidelines.
Some tax situations may be outside the scope of services that VITA volunteers are able to provide. You can review the IRS publication below to learn more about the types of tax returns and services available through VITA.
PCSI’s VITA tax preparation site operates during tax season, generally from mid-January through April 15.
Appointments are available:
- Mondays, 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Thursdays, 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tax preparation takes place at:
Pittsburgh Community Services, Inc.
249 N. Craig Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Parking is FREE in our lot!
Appointment scheduling information will be available closer to tax season. Appointments will be scheduled through 2-1-1.
For questions about PCSI’s VITA program, call Caitlyn Crowder, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Site Coordinator, at 412-202-8335.
VITA tax returns are prepared by trained volunteers who have completed IRS-approved tax law training and passed certification requirements.
The IRS also requires a quality review of every return prepared at a VITA site before it is filed. Volunteers are trained to protect the privacy and confidentiality of taxpayer information.
Having the right documents with you can help make your appointment go more smoothly.
Before your appointment, review the IRS checklist to see what identification, income documents, tax forms, and other information you may need to bring.
View the IRS Checklist for Free Tax Return Preparation
If you are unsure what you need, call PCSI at 412-202-8335 before your appointment.
More Than Tax Preparation
A tax refund can help with immediate expenses, but it can also be an opportunity to strengthen your financial stability.
If you need additional support, PCSI can connect you with our other programming, including employment services, utility assistance, food assistance, and resources like budgeting sessions and financial coaching. Learn more about PCSI programs and services
Interested in Becoming a VITA Volunteer?
PCSI is recruiting volunteers to help support our new VITA tax preparation site, including tax preparers, quality reviewers, and greeters. Volunteers will help provide free tax preparation services to individuals and families in our community. Read specific details here.
To learn more about volunteering, contact Caitlyn Crowder, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Site Coordinator, at 412-202-8335.