Tuesday, March 8, 2016 11:50 am

Through the United Way Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, individuals and families with an annual household income of less than $62,000 can file their taxes for free from now until April 15, 2016.

Since the start of this year's VITA program on January 29, 2016, 433 returns have been completed with an average Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) refund of nearly $2,000 going back into Rutherford and Cannon counties. EITC is a benefit for working individuals with low to moderate income. The opportunity to file through the VITA program supports United Way's focus to increase financial stability for individuals and families in the community.

United Way VITA sites are located at Patterson Park Community Center in Murfreesboro and Smyrna Assembly Hall. Appointments are necessary to file at the VITA site. To schedule an appointment, call (615) 971-8678.

Individuals and families can also file for free anytime, anywhere with www.myfreetaxes.com.

For more information, call (615) 971-8678 or visit www.yourlocalvita.org.