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[Farwell, MI—] Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now scheduling appointments for free income tax preparation services in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties. In-person and drop-off options are available.

Mid Michigan CAA’s IRS-trained and certified volunteers will help filers complete and submit federal and state tax returns and any available credits safely and accurately.

“We know tax season can feel stressful, and we want individuals and families to know they don’t have to do it alone,” said Cherri Swanstra, Community Impact Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Our trained volunteers are here to help our neighbors file their taxes with confidence and make sure they have the support they need throughout the process.”

What Mid Michigan CAA can help file:
Tax preparation assistance may be available for people who:

• Worked a job and received a W-2
• Earned income reported on common tax forms such as 1099s
• Receive Social Security or other retirement income
• Receive Railroad Retirement
• Have military income
• Have certain international filing situations (including Canada)

Mid Michigan Community Action is not able to prepare returns that include self-employment or business income, including farm income.

Individuals and families should bring all tax documents that apply to their situation, including photo identification and Social Security cards for all household members. Having all required forms ready helps ensure appointments go smoothly and returns can be filed accurately.

How to schedule an appointment
To schedule a tax preparation appointment, individuals can call or text the office nearest them:

• Big Rapids: 231-660-0271
• Gladwin: 989-426-2801
• Farwell: 989-386-3805
• Reed City: 231-791-7078

More information is available at: www.mmcaa.org/taxprep

​Mid Michigan Community Action Agency guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

In the News
Gladwin County Record and Beaverton Clarion: Mid Michigan Community Action now scheduling free tax preparation appointments, Published January 28, 2026
Midland Daily News: Free Tax prep Offered to Low- to Moderate-Income Filers, January 29, 2026
Big Rapids Pioneer: Free tax prep offered to low- to moderate-income filers, Published January 29, 2026
​Clare County Cleaver: Mid Michigan Community Action Now Scheduling Free Tax Preparation Appointments, Published February 2, 2026

Mid Michigan Community Action (Mid Michigan CAA) is now accepting appointments for free income tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
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VITA is a nationwide IRS program, supported by Community Action Agencies and other partner organizations, where IRS-trained and certified volunteers provide tax preparation services at no cost to eligible individuals and families. The program offers both virtual and in-person appointments to ensure flexibility for customers.

“We’re excited to help households prepare their taxes and claim any available credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Home Heating Credit,” said Cherri Swanstra, Community Empowerment Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “Last year, we helped bring over $790,000 in refunds back to our communities, and we look forward to doing the same this year.”

The VITA program serves Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties. Customers will need to bring relevant documents, such as wage statements (W2 or 1099), health insurance forms (1095s), heating costs, and other required items for tax filing. For a full list of documents, visit: https://www.mmcaa.org/taxpreparationassistance.html.

Tax preparation appointments are now open, and residents can secure their spot by emailing [email protected] or calling or texting the office nearest to them:

• Big Rapids: 231-660-0271
• Gladwin: 989-426-2801
• Farwell: 989-386-3805
• Reed City: 231-791-7078

​“We’re committed to ensuring that tax preparation is accessible, easy, and free for our local families,” added Swanstra. “Whether you choose a virtual or in-person appointment, we’re here to help you file safely and confidently.”

Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

​Mid Michigan Community Action is excited to announce the extension of our tax preparation services and Home Heating Credit filing through September 13th.
 
Our dedicated team of IRS-trained and certified tax preparation volunteers can assist with filing Federal and State Income Tax Returns, ensuring that all applicable credits, including the Home Heating Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), are claimed.  Previous tax years may also be prepared and E-filed for free.
 
Individuals interested in taking advantage of these extended services should call or text 989-418-0992 to schedule an appointment or to obtain more information. Our team is committed to providing professional and reliable assistance to ensure that taxpayers receive the benefits they are entitled to.
 
"At Mid Michigan Community Action, we understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes meeting the tax deadline can be challenging," said Cherri Swanstra, Community Empowerment Director. "We are here to support our community by extending our tax preparation services through September 13th, 2024, making it easier for individuals and families to fulfill their tax obligations and receive the credits they deserve."
 
Our tax preparation volunteers have undergone rigorous training and certification by the IRS, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle a variety of tax situations. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to providing essential services and support to our community, helping to alleviate financial stress and promote economic stability.
 
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call or text Rebeca at 989-418-0992. Don't miss out on the opportunity to have your taxes and Home Heating Credits prepared by our skilled volunteers.
 
Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Will be Providing Volunteer Income Tax Assistance in 2023

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) will be providing free income tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

VITA is an IRS program managed by partners all over the country, including Community Action Agencies. IRS-trained and certified volunteers work with community members to prepare their taxes safely, confidentially, and at no cost. Virtual and in-person return options are available.

“VITA provides high-quality tax preparation services with no costs or hidden fees meaning our clients receive their entire return,” said Cherri Swanstra, Mid Michigan CAA Outreach Assistant Director. “Last year we filed over 919 returns, bringing $862,744 back for our clients and into our communities.”

The VITA program serves Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties residents. Those interested in having their taxes prepared at no cost to them should contact call nearest office: Big Rapids: 231-660-0271, Farwell: 989-386-3805, Gladwin: 989-426-2801, or Reed City: 231-791-7078. Mid Michigan CAA is scheduling appointments now.

To learn more about the tax preparation program, visit www.mmcaa.org/taxprep.
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Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) will be providing free income tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

VITA is an IRS program managed by partners all over the country, including Community Action Agencies. IRS-trained and certified volunteers work with community members to prepare their taxes safely, confidentially, and at no cost to the community members.

Mid Michigan CAA will offer virtual and in-person return options. Social distancing practices will be required for in-person appointments.

“We are pleased to be able to offer households options for how they have their taxes prepared so we can assist the maximum number of filers,” said Eva Rohlman, Mid Michigan CAA Outreach Director. “Each year our volunteers help community members receive the most out of their returns including all credits without filing costs or hidden fees.”

The VITA program is currently scheduled to run from February 1st through April 18th, 2022, serving residents of Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties. Those interested in having their taxes prepared at no cost to them should contact call nearest office:

Big Rapids: 231-660-0271
Farwell: 989-386-3805
Gladwin: 989-426-2801
Reed City: 231-791-7078

​Mid Michigan CAA will begin scheduling appointments on January 24th.

Learn more about the tax preparation program here.

Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is seeking volunteers for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

Tax preparation and greeter positions are available with opportunities in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties. No experience is necessary. Volunteers will receive free training and mileage reimbursements for travel to and from sites.

Mid Michigan CAA will offer virtual and in-person return options. Volunteers will be able to choose if they would like to work in an office setting or remotely. Social distancing practices will be required for in-person appointments.

“Each year our VITA volunteers help hundreds of households claim their maximum refund including all credits without filing costs or hidden fees,” said Eva Rohlman, Mid Michigan CAA Outreach Director. “Last year they filed 691 returns, and their hard work brought $576,712 back into our communities.”

Volunteer training will begin in January 2022 and tax preparation will run from February through April of 2022.

Those interested in volunteering should contact Sheri Nartker at 989-386-3805 ext. 1024 or [email protected].

Learn more about our tax preparation program here.

Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

Community Action Month is a celebration of the accomplishments of Community Action Agencies (CAAs) across the country. CAAs are a robust state and local force, reaching individuals and families in 99 percent of America’s counties with life-changing services that create pathways to prosperity.

As part of the CAA network, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) serves Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, Muskegon, Oceana, and Osceola Counties. Over the past year, our communities have faced unprecedented challenges including a pandemic and a 500 year flood event. In the face of these obstacles, Mid Michigan CAA has adapted to serving clients through largely virtual means while continuing to administer all programs and even adding additional services as new and increased needs arose.

Last year, Mid Michigan CAA distributed 48,441 food boxes or 750 tons of food. As a response to increased food insecurity due to the pandemic, they were able to distribute 55 more tons of food than the year before.

Despite swift changes to the programs, Mid Michigan CAA’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs served 533 children last year. These programs provide support for children and families. They use a curriculum that supports school readiness and coordinate with area public schools to facilitate smooth transitioning for each child.

In the 2019 income tax season, Mid Michigan CAA processed returns for 440 households, bringing $478,566 in returns back into Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties.

Last year, Mid Michigan CAA weatherized 44 homes through the Weatherization Assistance Program. An additional 23 households received roofing repair assistance through the Housing Preservation Grant. These services make homes safer, healthier, more comfortable, and more affordable for the residents.

In 2020, Mid Michigan CAA administered the Eviction Diversion program, helping residents in 180 households stay in their homes.
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“The last year brought changes and challenges we could never have imagined. In response, we were able to expand our services and add new programs to address the needs of our communities. We are energized at being asked to serve our communities in ways we’ve never done before,” said Jill Sutton, Executive Director of Mid Michigan Community Action. “And while there is still work to be done, we are proud to continue ‘helping people, changing lives.’”

Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) will be providing free income tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

VITA is an IRS program managed by partners all over the country, including Community Action Agencies. IRS trained and certified volunteers work with community members to prepare their taxes safely, confidentially, and at no cost to the community members.

To allow for ongoing social distancing measures, VITA appointments will be low-contact with most aspects of the tax return process being conducted virtually, by phone, and/or by mail. Due to the Stay Home order in March of 2020 and the tax program closing early, Mid Michigan CAA will be able to process 2019 tax returns in addition to 2020 tax returns.

“Each year our volunteers work throughout the tax season to help as many households as possible claim their maximum refund including all credits without filing costs or hidden fees,” said Outreach Director Eva Rohlman. “Though this year is going to look a little different, the high-quality tax preparation service we can provide to our communities will remain the same.”

The VITA program will run from February 1st through April 15th, 2021, serving residents of Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola Counties. Those interested in having their taxes prepared at no cost to them should contact call nearest office:

Big Rapids: 231-660-0271
Farwell: 989-386-3805
Gladwin: 989-426-2801
Reed City: 231-791-7078.

Those interested in volunteering should contact Sheri Nartker at 989-386-3805 ext. 1024 or [email protected] as soon as possible.

Learn more about our tax prep program.