Cedar Valley United Way supports local programs that help residents fulfill their federal tax requirements and realize their eligibility to receive Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). EITC is a federal aid program that supports individuals and families that make less than $40,000 per year. The Retired and Senior Volunteers Program (RSVP) as well as Operation Threshold's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) are two local programs that aid residents in their tax preparation needs.
 
RSVP gives individuals ages 55 and above opportunities to stay active and involved in their communities through volunteer work. One way they volunteer is by providing free tax preparation, primarily to senior citizens. During the previous tax season, RSVP volunteers helped file 1,416 federal returns. The average income was $18,941 per return. The total amount returned to the Cedar Valley through EITC was $400,475. Total federal refunds issued including EIC equaled $1,044,948.
 
The VITA program assists people in preparing their taxes. In 2009, volunteers filed 286 returns. Of these returns, 158 received EITC, with a total dollar amount of $246,370 returned in EITC.
 
This money coming back into the community helps by boosting our economy and helping low-income individuals and families maintain a self-sufficient lifestyle.