Residents who need help filing their taxes can receive free, in-person assistance later this month at the El Monte Library through a federally supported volunteer program.
The Free Tax Help El Monte event will be held Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the meeting room at the El Monte Library, 3224 Tyler Ave. The service is open to adult taxpayers and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The event is part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, commonly known as VITA, a nationwide effort supported by the Internal Revenue Service to help individuals and families file accurate tax returns at no cost.
Free Filing Support For Qualified Residents
Trained, IRS-certified volunteers will prepare and electronically file basic federal and California state income tax returns for eligible participants. The program focuses on taxpayers with low to moderate incomes, generally those earning about $67,000 a year or less.
VITA services also prioritize assistance for people with disabilities and residents with limited English proficiency. Volunteers follow strict IRS guidelines and use approved software to complete returns during the appointment.
Library officials said the Free Tax Help El Monte event is designed to remove financial barriers that often prevent residents from seeking professional tax preparation. Commercial filing fees can be costly, particularly for households already managing tight budgets.
What To Bring And How It Works
Participants should arrive prepared with required documents to allow volunteers to complete returns during the visit. These documents typically include a valid photo ID, Social Security or ITIN information for all household members, and income forms such as W-2s or 1099s.
Taxpayers who paid for child care, received health coverage through the marketplace, or qualify for tax credits should bring related paperwork. Having complete records helps volunteers file accurate returns and submit them electronically the same day.
The service does not cover complex returns, such as those involving rental properties or extensive self-employment income. Volunteers can explain eligibility on site and refer residents to other resources if needed.
Community Impact And Access
Hosting the Free Tax Help El Monte event at the library places the service in a familiar and accessible community space. Library staff noted that the meeting room allows for private conversations while keeping the event open to walk-in visitors.
Programs like VITA help residents claim credits they may otherwise miss, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit. These refunds often provide critical support for housing, utilities, and daily expenses.
More information about the event is available through the Los Angeles County Library calendar at https://visit.lacountylibrary.org.
By offering free, trusted tax assistance locally, the Free Tax Help El Monte event supports financial stability for individuals and families across the community.
Photo Courtesy Los Angeles County
