US Govt Confirmed $5000 to $2 Million Payment: The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is now inviting applications for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) grants. These programs support organisations that help people file their federal tax returns for free. In 2025 alone, these programs helped over 2.7 million taxpayers across the United States.
If you’re part of a nonprofit or community group that wants to offer free tax help, now is your chance to apply for funding and be part of a valuable nationwide service.
What are the VITA Programs
| Phase | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Application Period | May 1 – May 31 |
| Review and Evaluation | June 1 – September 30 |
| Notification of Selection/Non-selection | October 1 |
| Project Period / Period of Performance | October 1 – September 30 |
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): The VITA program originally started in 1969, but the grant version was launched in 2007. It focuses on providing free tax help to low-income individuals, persons with disabilities, and those with limited English-speaking skills, especially in urban and remote rural areas. The VITA grant helps improve volunteer training, electronic filing, and ensures high accuracy in tax return submissions.
Who can Apply for These Grants?
Eligible applicants for VITA grants include:
- Nonprofit organisations
- Community and faith-based groups
- Colleges and universities
- Local government agencies
- Native American tribes and military organisations
These grants can cover operations for up to three years, providing steady support for community tax assistance programs.
When and How to Apply?
The IRS is accepting applications from May 1, 2025, to May 31, 2025. Interested organisations must submit their application through the Grants.gov website.
You can find detailed instructions, guidelines, and required forms on the IRS VITA webpage. Make sure to prepare all documents before the deadline.
Why Are These Programs Important?
These grants allow communities to offer completely free tax preparation services. This is especially helpful for people who:
- Can’t afford tax professionals
- Are not confident filing on their own
- Need help understanding tax rules
By improving access to tax help, these programs ensure more people file correctly and on time, reducing errors and stress.
The IRS’s VITA grant programs are a golden opportunity for community organisations to step up and make a real impact. Whether you’re helping seniors, low-income families, or underserved populations, these grants offer the tools and support needed to provide professional, free tax help. With over 2.7 million returns filed in 2025 alone, it’s clear these programs work—and your organisation can be a part of that success.
About VITA Grant Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Grant Program |
| Administered By | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – Stakeholder Partnerships, Education and Communication (SPEC) |
| Purpose | Support community organizations in providing free tax help to underserved populations |
| Target Groups | Low-to-moderate income individuals, people with disabilities, limited English speakers, elderly, rural residents, Native Americans, military and their families |
| Funding Start Year | 2007 (made permanent by the Taxpayer First Act) |
| Funding Duration | Annual, with multi-year grants possible (3-year period) |
| Key Objectives | Extend VITA services, improve accuracy, enhance training, and expand electronic filing capabilities |
| Annual Grant Timeline | Application: May 1–31; Review: June–September; Notification: October 1; Performance Period: October 1–September 30 |
| Grant Submission Method | Only via Grants.gov |
| Matching Requirement | 100% cost sharing or matching required |
| Eligible Organizations | Non-profits (501(c)), colleges/universities, local/state/tribal governments, coalitions with eligible lead entities |
| Volunteer Requirements | Complete certifications via Link & Learn Taxes; training includes ethics, intake/interview, quality review, and applicable tax law certifications |
| Software Use | IRS provides tax software (desktop/online); funds cannot be used to purchase software |
| Quality Site Requirements (QSR) | 10 mandatory QSRs including certification, intake/interview, ID verification, confidentiality, correct SIDN/EFIN, civil rights info, and timely filing |
| Contact Email | Grant.Program.Office@irs.gov |
| More Info | IRS VITA Grant Page |
FAQ
What is the IRS TCE grant?
The TCE grant supports organizations that help senior citizens aged 60 and above with free federal tax return preparation and filing assistance.
What is the VITA grant program?
The VITA grant program funds free tax assistance for low-income individuals, people with disabilities, and those with limited English, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
When is the application period for TCE and VITA grants in 2025?
Applications are open from May 1 to May 31, 2025, and must be submitted through Grants.gov.
How long does the IRS grant funding last?
Grants can provide funding for up to three years, allowing programs to operate continuously and serve communities effectively.
Where can I find the application forms and guidelines?
You can find the complete application package and instructions on the IRS TCE and VITA grants webpage.
