After being interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is again available at Newton Public Library.

VITA volunteers have worked out a new approach that allows them to assist lower-income taxpayers without meeting them in person.

Those seeking free VITA assistance should follow this procedure:

• Visit Newton Public Library and pick up a VITA packet at the public service desk. The packet will include detailed instructions, plus forms to fill out.

• Return the completed VITA packet to staff at the public service desk. Please note that taxpayers are required to include copies of photo ID cards for themselves and their spouses, along with Social Security or ITN cards for all family members, including children. A self-service photocopy machine is available at the library, and copies are $0.10 per page.

• Once your completed packet has been submitted, you will receive a phone call from a VITA volunteer sometime in the next few days. The volunteer will either request more information or let you know you that your tax return has been completed and can be picked up at the library.

This year’s tax filing deadline is Wednesday, July 15, but to give volunteers time to assist all taxpayers, the deadline to submit a VITA packet is Monday, June 29.

Newton Public Library’s hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursdays. For more information, visit the library website, www.newtonplks.org, or call 316-283-2890.