Emmerie Torres knows from experience that saving money is important.

In 2014 when she graduated from North Stafford High School, she wanted to go away to college. After talking it over with her mom, she decided it would be better to live at home for two years, attend Germanna Community College and save the money.

“I had thought about going to Longwood,” said Torres, who now attends Virginia Commonwealth University, is considering joining the military after college and eventually wants to work for a federal agency. “Time at home in a community college gives you more time to think about what you really want.”

When it came time to get her taxes done this year, Torres didn’t have to think twice. She knew right where to go to save money on tax preparation fees and get great service at the same time.

“I came home today to do this,” said Torres, criminal justice major at VCU, as she waited in line to get her taxes prepared for free by Rappahannock United Way at Porter Library in North Stafford. “I’ve been coming here ever since I started working. It’s really helpful. I don’t know a lot about taxes. It’s nice to have that guidance.”

Torres, who worked as a nanny last semester, said taxes make her feel a bit stressed but the excellent service from Rappahannock United Way helps alleviate that feeling.

“I’d rather do it myself, but I don’t want to get anything wrong,” said Torres, who plans to pay off bills and use the money for living expenses if she receives a refund this year. “The service is awesome. I’m really grateful for it.”

Want to help more people in our community have access to financial resources like free tax preparation and free financial coaching? Choose Rappahannock United Way!

Donate to United Way’s financial stability work.
Advocate by sharing information on social media. Follow us here.
Volunteer as a financial coach year around or as a tax greeter or preparer during tax season.