State Rep. Karl Bohnak today announced he is seeking funding in the state budget to support the United Way of Marquette County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which helps seniors, veterans, and working families file their taxes for free.

“Tax filing can be complicated and burdensome, especially for working families, seniors, and veterans,” said Bohnak, R-Deerton. “Programs like VITA cut through the confusion and make sure people get their taxes filed correctly — and get more of their money back.”

Bohnak’s budget request would provide $35,000 to support the program. VITA relies on trained volunteers to prepare federal and state tax returns and help residents claim credits they may qualify for, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and Homestead Property Tax Credit.

Local experts say the initiative returns hundreds of thousands of dollars to the local economy each year — money that might otherwise go unclaimed or be lost to costly commercial tax preparation fees.

Supporters estimate the program delivers roughly a 10-to-1 return on investment, making it a small budget investment with a significant economic impact.

The House budget committees are currently considering Bohnak’s request.

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