NIGERIAN CENTER FORGES PARTNERSHIP WITH THE IRS TO PROVIDE FREE TAX ASSISTANCE FOR IMMIGRANTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON DC –February 1, 2024 - The Nigerian Center is excited to partner with the IRS to launch the 2024 IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA). The center will provide free tax preparation services through both walk-in and virtual services from February 15 to April 15, 2024. To introduce and discuss this program, the center will hold a virtual press conference on February 8 at 11:30 AM ET. Members of the press and public can register to attend the press conference at www.nigeriancenter.org/events/vita.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, sponsored by the IRS, offers a safe and secure way for families and individuals across the country to file their taxes each year. Eligible persons with an annual income of less than $64,000 can now access this free service at the Nigerian Center. 

IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers will be available every Thursday from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm at the center located at 1213 Marion Barry Avenue, SE, Washington DC 20020. Virtual assistance is available from Monday to Saturday. The center is also seeking partner organizations to extend support to those meeting program requirements. 

For inquiries, please visit www.nigeriancenter.org/vita or call (202) 033-0352.

According to Gbenga Ogunjimi, the Executive Director of the Nigerian Center, "Paying taxes in the United States is a significant aspect of the American dream. However, for some individuals who have been unable to file taxes for years, the consequences can profoundly impact their ability to overcome poverty in America. This free tax assistance program addresses this issue and sets individuals on the path to prosperity in America."

For tax assistance, participants are required to bring all necessary documentation including photo identification, Social Security cards for spouses and dependents, wage and earning statements (including W-2 and 1099 forms), interest and dividend statements, health insurance exemption certificate, bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit, childcare statements, health coverage statements, and copies of the prior year’s federal and state income tax returns.

The Nigerian Center sees this program as a significant expansion of services, complementing its immigration assistance service. This initiative aligns with the center's mission of promoting financial inclusion and advancing opportunities for social justice.

For media inquiries please contact Dasia Scott at media@nigeriancenter.com

###