• Home
  • Programs
    • Family Support >
      • Early Home Support
      • Parenting/Caregiver & Family Programs
      • Youth Programs
      • Kinship Navigation
    • Financial Wellness >
      • Money Coaching
      • Free Tax Preparation
    • Registration Form
  • CALENDAR
  • About
    • Who We Are
    • Staff and Board
    • Blog
  • Resources
    • Community Resources
    • FACT Book
    • On-Site Agencies
    • Wood Bank
  • Get Involved
    • Volunteer
    • Attend a Program
  • Donate
The River Center
  • Home
  • Programs
    • Family Support >
      • Early Home Support
      • Parenting/Caregiver & Family Programs
      • Youth Programs
      • Kinship Navigation
    • Financial Wellness >
      • Money Coaching
      • Free Tax Preparation
    • Registration Form
  • CALENDAR
  • About
    • Who We Are
    • Staff and Board
    • Blog
  • Resources
    • Community Resources
    • FACT Book
    • On-Site Agencies
    • Wood Bank
  • Get Involved
    • Volunteer
    • Attend a Program
  • Donate
Picture

Free Tax PrepAration

Our tax clinic is now closed and is no longer accepting appointments if you are looking to have your return done today. Please scroll down to "Other options for tax preparation" to file your return online.

Don't Pay For Costly Tax Preparation If You Don't Have To

​The River Center's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers free tax preparation to eligible individuals and households with incomes of around $67,000 in Tax Year 2024. Our IRS-certified volunteers work with you to access credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child and Dependent Care Credit, and the Additional Child Tax Credit.
Call to check your eligibility and to schedule your appointment!
Call: (603) 924-6800 EXT. 30

Am I eligible for your free tax program?

What we can prepare
The following is a general list of what qualifies for our free tax preparation program. Please note that an appointment is not a guarantee that your return is in scope. If you are not sure, please call us at (603) 924-6800 ext 30 or email [email protected].

  • Wages, salaries, etc. (Form W-2)
  • Interest Income (Form 1099-INT)
  • Dividends Received (Form 1099-DIV)
  • State Tax Refunds (Form 1099-G)
  • Unemployment Benefits (Form 1099-G)
  • IRA Distributions (Form 1099-R)
  • Pension Income (Forms 1099-R, RRB-1099, CSA-1099)
  • Social Security Benefits (Form SSA-1099)
  • Simple Capital Gain/Loss (Form 1099-B)
  • Self-employed Income (Form 1099-MISC) limited
  • Gambling Winnings (Form W-2G)
  • Health Savings Accounts (Form 1099-SA) limited
  • Itemized Deductions limited
  • Education Credits (Form 1098-T)
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Earned Income Credit
  • ACA Statements (Forms 1095-A, B or C)
​What we cannot prepare
We are not able to do your taxes if you have:
  • income from driving a cab, rental income
  • any tax filing requirements involving cryptocurrency
  • self-employment if from a hobby, farm/agriculture
  • Business use of home
  • expenses related to business use of home (ex. utilities except for cell phone use)
  • filed bankruptcy in the tax year you wish to file
There are also other, less common situations that are out of our scope. Please contact us if you have any questions about this information.
Click for more information on eligibility
There are other situations that we are not able to prepare. If in doubt, please, please call us or email [email protected]

Three Ways For You To File Your Return With Us

We know you're busy and you want options to fit  your schedule. This year we have THREE ways for you to file your return!
1. Valet VITA (open to read more)
This is a 2-visit appointment.
First you meet with a volunteer to review your information and documents, You return the following week to finalize your return for e-filing. We keep your documents behind lock and key until you return to finalize your return.

Pros:
  • First visit is about 30 minutes, 2nd visit is about 10 minutes.
  • No need to wait around for your return to be prepared, but you must sit down for an interview to go over your documents so we can make sure we have everything we need to prepare an accurate return.
  • If you have forgotten a document, we can send you an invitation to upload your documents into our software so you can save  yourself an extra visit.
Cons:
  • One week turnaround time, 2 visits.
Best if: 
  • You are unable to wait for the preparer and quality reviewer to work on your return.
  • You can't make it to one of our other clinic days or hours.
2. Same Day VITA (open to read more)
With a traditional VITA appointment, you meet with volunteers who will prepare and review your tax return, you finalize your return for e-filing and you leave with a copy of your completed and signed tax return. 
Pros: 
  • One visit only - either Fridays or Saturdays.
  • You can learn more about The River Center and what we have to offer you and your family.
  • You are able to ask and answer questions as the volunteers are preparing your return.
Cons: 
  • Expect to spend up to 2 hours in our office. You might be in and out within an hour or your return might require more time. We try our best to keep to the schedule, but there are always exceptions.
  • Rescheduling your appointment must wait until our next business day (usually Monday).
  • We do not have refreshments available to the public so please bring your own!
Best if: 
  • Your return is more complicated (ex. Schedule C/Self-Employment, other state returns, DP-10, 1099-B, itemized deductions, HSA, Form 1095-A, etc)
  • You can't make it to one of our other clinic days.
3. DIY VITA (open to read more)
Skip the wait and prepare your return yourself with our software. E-file for free. 
Pros:
  • No wait.
  • You get the satisfaction of learning how to do your own return! (with guidance from an IRS-certified volunteer).
  • You learn more about your own taxes so you can become a more informed taxpayer.
  • This option is available during clinic hours depending on volunteer availability by appointment.
Cons:
  • None.
​Best if: 
  • You have less than 5 tax forms.
  • Your tax situation is simple.
  • You are comfortable with technology.

What to bring to your appointment

our tax return is only as accurate as the information you provide to us so be sure to collect all of the required documents to prepare your return when you make the call for an appointment AND when you come in for your appointment.
You can download your intake forms to fill out before you come to your appointment:​
Wednesday
​appointments
Friday/Saturday
​Appointments

Individuals/Families: List of documents to bring

  • Photo ID - if filing a joint return, both spouses must be present
  • SSN (original/copy) for everyone on your tax return. If you have lost or misplaced your card and don't have any of the documents listed below, , as a NH resident you must go to the Social Security field office closest to you to apply for a replacement.  We accept the following forms of proof:
    • Social Security Card
    • Social Security Number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration
    • Social Security income statement (or any document issued from the Social Security Administration)
  • Bank routing/account #s for direct deposit
  • All 2023 W-2, 1099 tax forms
  • *1098-T (if applicable)
  • *Year-end childcare expenses statement (if applicable)
  • *Self-employment income and expenses - totaled & categorized (if applicable) - see the drop-down for a form for Self-Employed filers.
  • *All relevant tax forms (ex. 1095A for Marketplace Health Insurance, any Forms 1099, 1098E, HSA Forms 54980S, 1099-SA etc)
  • *Last year's tax return (helpful for accuracy)
  • For a more comprehensive list of what to bring, go here: IRS Pub 3676-A
IMPORTANT: We are unable to accept *any* email with personal identifiable information (PII) such as tax documents, copies of social security cards, etc. We will delete the email and ask you to bring in the documents in person or upload them to your tax return via the Customer Portal in our software (ask us about this).

Keep your identity safe!
Self-Employed: List of documents to bring
​Bring all of the same applicable and required documents in the INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS list, but also complete this:

 Self-Employment Tax Organizer (SETO) 
​
​
**You do not need to bring any receipts or bank statements because you will provide your income and expenses on the SETO form.  You do need to keep them as documentation (receipts, etc) in case the IRS contacts you to verify your self-employment income and expenses.

Another Free Way To File With The IRS

Direct File Pilot - this is a free program offered by the IRS since last year. Filers will be able to prepare and file their own tax returns directly with the IRS for free. No more middle-person to pay or waiting for spots to open up. Go here to learn more and to find out if you're eligible. 

Other options for tax preparation

  • NH Tax Help
  • AARP Locator: ​
  • Free File Options:
    • MyFreeTaxes  (income limits may apply) 
    • IRS Free File (various providers) 
    • GetYourRefund - 100% virtual
  • VITA/TCE Site Locator
  • Find a CPA - New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants
Picture
TAX FILING SEASON CLINIC HOURS (as of February 1st)
  • We are now closed.

Call (603) 924-6800 ext 30 to schedule starting January 13 to April 12.

SAVE THE DATE:
January 13, 2025 - Phone line to schedule your appointment opens!
February 1, 2025 - Tax clinic opens 
April 12, 2025- Tax clinic closes

IMPORTANT: Do not email any documents with personal identifiable information (PII) such as tax documents, copies of social security cards, etc. We will delete the email and ask you to bring in the documents in person or send you an invitation to upload to your return via our software's secure Customer Portal in our software (ask us about this).

Keep your identity and information safe!
Picture

Frequently asked questions

I still have to file for 2022, 2021, 20XX. Will you prepare those returns too?
Yes, we can prepare those returns for you as well. However, we may only have time at your appointment for your 2023 tax return. Your other years will be prepared as Valet VITA returns (see above) and you will need to fill out a different intake form for each year. Ask the greeter or preparer to provide them to you. 
Can I bring my son/daughter/other relative to have their return prepared too?
Yes! They will also need to have their own appointment, have all of their required documents and identification, and be present in order for us to prepare their return.
​
If you are self-filing, you may give someone else permission to file your tax return. VITA sites cannot do these returns in any form.
I can't find my social security card. Do I need to bring it?
Yes, all taxpayers are required by the IRS to show their social security cards (or copies) to prevent identity theft. Alternatively, you can provide Form SSA-1099 from the Social Security Administration.

NEW CLIENTS: If you are new to our program, have lost or misplaced your card and don't have any of the acceptable forms, as a NH resident you must go to the Social Security field office closest to you to apply for a replacement before we can prepare your return. Other states may allow you to apply online for one. This is an IRS requirement for all VITA sites.
Can I sign the return for my spouse?
Generally, no. Your spouse must sign the return and e-file authorization form themselves unless Form 2848 Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative has been prepared in advance or you and your spouse are known to the site. If your spouse is unable to sign for themselves due to injury or disease and you are known to the site, please let us know when you schedule your appointment and let the volunteer preparer know when you arrive. Your spouse may also come on a different date convenient to them to finalize your return.
I made an appointment and now I can't make it/I filed my taxes myself/I don't want the appointment. Do I need to call?
Yes, PLEASE! We have limited appointment spots available and so these spots are hot items. Call us ASAP at (603) 924-6800 ext 30 to call and/or reschedule no later than 24 hours before your appointment
Can I just drop off my tax documents and come back at a later time?
"Drop-Off" does not mean slipping your tax packet under the door or leaving it on the front desk.

Valet VITA Appointments: These are also sometimes referred to as "drop-offs" but it's not that simple. The IRS requires each VITA site to have filers fill out an intake form, and other necessary forms. All filers must then participate in a discussion with a Volunteer Tax Preparer to go over your answers on the form and your documents before you leave, in order for our volunteers to prepare your return accurately.
​I haven't seen my refund yet. What do I do?
If you are getting the Earned Income Tax Credit, your refund will be released by March 3.

​You can check the status of your refund here.
Do I have to file?
If your income is below the standard deduction for your filing status, you generally don't have a filing requirement. Go here to use the IRS tool to determine if you need to file.
​
​Can I bring my passport instead of my social security card?
​
No. 
Your unexpired passport, however, can be used as your government-issued photo ID that you must also bring.
Why do I have to fill out all of this paperwork before my appointment?
All VITA programs nationwide are required to have an intake/interview form (Form 13614-C) completed for every tax return prepared. Either the taxpayer can complete the form or a VITA volunteer can assist if needed.

This intake form is required so that the volunteer preparers have the necessary information needed to complete an accurate return.

If you are participating in Valet VITA or you need to leave your documents with us because you need to get more information, you will have other forms to fill out. Ask about these forms.
Why can't I just drop by and have someone do my taxes?​
The VITA program is powered by volunteers--people in the community such as your neighbors, your friends, your bank teller, a family member, anyone! Our VITA Clinic is open on:
  • Wednesdays (generally 1 pm - 7 pm)
  • Fridays, 1 pm - 4 pm
  • Saturdays, 8:30 am - 2:30 pm during tax season.
Volunteers are only available during these times by appointment. Our clinic is not open during other business hours, but the phone line will be open.

Picture

    Want to be a vita volunteer?

    Make a difference by joining our team of volunteers who are passionate about helping people keep more of their hard-earned money. No experience necessary! Become a greeter or tax preparer and be a part of change in your community.
Submit

    Questions?

Tell Me More!
Contact form submissions are responded to on M-Th. If you have a more urgent request, please call us at (603) 924-6800 or email [email protected] directly. If you are experiencing an emergency please call 911.
Picture
​9 Vose Farm Road
​Suite 115
Peterborough, NH 03458
603-924-6800
donate

Subscribe to our newsletter

Picture
Picture
Designated since 2018.
Copyright © 2025 by The River Center​
  • Home
  • Programs
    • Family Support >
      • Early Home Support
      • Parenting/Caregiver & Family Programs
      • Youth Programs
      • Kinship Navigation
    • Financial Wellness >
      • Money Coaching
      • Free Tax Preparation
    • Registration Form
  • CALENDAR
  • About
    • Who We Are
    • Staff and Board
    • Blog
  • Resources
    • Community Resources
    • FACT Book
    • On-Site Agencies
    • Wood Bank
  • Get Involved
    • Volunteer
    • Attend a Program
  • Donate