Financial
Build confidence. Create a plan. Meet your goals.
At Southeast Community Services, we believe financial stability is the foundation for long-term success. Whether you’re just starting out, working to get back on track, or planning for the future, our financial empowerment services are designed to meet you where you are and help you move forward—step by step.
We know that money can be a hard topic to talk about. But you’re not in this alone. Our coaches are here to listen, guide, and help you create a plan that works for your life.
Financial Coaching
Our one-on-one financial coaching helps you understand your finances and build a plan for long-term stability. We work closely with your career and education coach to ensure your financial goals align with your employment and lifestyle aspirations.
We can help you:
- Review and understand your credit with a free credit report
- Develop a plan to improve your credit score
- Create a personalized, goal-based budget
- Manage debt and explore options for repayment
- Set financial goals that match your personal and family priorities
- Navigate available emergency resources (please note: SECS does not provide same-day emergency financial assistance)
VITA Tax Filing Services
Every year during tax season, SECS offers free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
Our IRS-certified volunteers help eligible neighbors file their federal and state taxes safely and accurately, maximizing refunds and avoiding unnecessary fees.
VITA is available to individuals and families who:
- Make $64,000 or less per year
- Have simple to moderately complex tax returns
Services include:
- Federal and state income tax filing
- Electronic filing (e-file) for faster returns
- Support with common tax credits (Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, etc.)
- Tax services are available January–April each year by appointment
- Held onsite at SECS
By Appointment Only
Appointments Available: Saturdays, January 31, 2026 - April 18, 2026
Site will be closed for Valentines Day and Easter Weekend.
VITA FAQs
Who qualifies for free tax services through VITA?
VITA is available to individuals and families whose household income is $64,000 or less in 2025. Your tax return must be simple to moderately complex. If you don’t qualify or need a different location, call 2-1-1 to find other VITA sites nearby.
When are appointments available?
Appointments are available Saturdays January 31st – April 18th (except Valentines and Easter weekends)
Time slots will open on January 13, 2025.
To schedule, call 317.510.0230 or email vita@southeastindy.org
Please do not call before that date.
Where are VITA appointments held?
All appointments take place at:
Southeast Community Services
901 Shelby Street, 2nd Floor
Indianapolis, IN 46203
What services are included?
- Federal and state income tax return filing
- Electronic filing (e-file) for faster refunds
- Help claiming common tax credits like the Earned Income Credit and Child Tax Credit
- Filing prior year or limited amended returns
What documents should I bring to my appointment?
Bring the following documents with you:
- Photo ID
- Social Security cards or ITIN letters for all household members
- Birthdates for everyone listed on the return
- All W-2s, 1099s, and other income forms
- A copy of last year’s tax return (if available)
- Bank account info for direct deposit
- Daycare provider name, address, and tax ID
- Health insurance forms (1095-A, B, or C)
- Both spouses present, if filing jointly
What types of tax forms can SECS help me with?
We can prepare and file returns with:
- Wages and salaries (W-2)
- Unemployment or state refunds (1099-G)
- Pensions or retirement income (1099-R)
- Social Security income (SSA-1099)
- Simple capital gains/losses (1099-B)
- Self-employment income (1099-MISC – limited)
- Education credits (1098-T)
- Health Savings Accounts (1099-SA – limited)
- Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Credit
- Sale of a home, gambling winnings, and debt cancellation (limited)
Can I volunteer with the VITA program?
Yes! If you’re interested in helping your neighbors and learning new skills, we’d love to have you. Training is provided. No prior tax experience is required.
Call 317.510.0230 to learn more about volunteering with VITA.
Indiana Legal Services
We work closely with Indiana Legal Services, Inc. (ILS), a nonprofit law firm that provides free civil legal assistance to eligible low-income residents throughout the state of Indiana.
As you work with your financial coach, they’ll be able to provide referrals and connect you to the services you need.