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CINCINNATI (Jan. 13, 2026) – United Way of Greater Cincinnati’s annual Free Tax Prep initiative is underway. Hundreds of volunteers are ready to help taxpayers throughout the area prepare tax returns at no cost. Last year, volunteers filed 9,657 returns, saved taxpayers in our area more than $2.6 million in filing fees and helped them claim $10.7 million in refunds.
On average, people spend about $275 on tax prep and filing fees. The cost of a credentialed preparer can be a barrier for taxpayers. If they try to prepare their return on their own or opt out of filing altogether, they risk missing out on all the credits and refund dollars they’re owed. That’s where IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) services can help. Different organizations throughout the country offer these resources, including United Way of Greater Cincinnati’s Free Tax Prep initiative.
“Tax credits and refunds can make a real difference for families working hard to make ends meet,” said Moira Weir, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Cincinnati. “Our Free Tax Prep program connects eligible households with trusted support so they can file with confidence. When we remove barriers that keep people from accessing resources, families have more money in their pockets and our local economy is stronger as a result.”
EITC Awareness
Many families aren’t aware they’re eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the nation’s largest need-tested, antipoverty program that provides cash benefits — benefits that are only accessible by filing a tax return. In 2025, filers who worked with United Way of Greater Cincinnati to claim their EITC received an average of $1,863. Yet, the IRS reports 20% of eligible Americans leave this money on the table each year.
File from Home for Free
MyFreeTaxes.com is a quick, convenient filing option for those who wish to file on their own. It’s a free tool available through United Way Worldwide for those earning less than $89,000 annually. MyFreeTaxes uses TaxSlayer software, a tax service with more than 50 years of industry experience. The software guides the taxpayer through the return and offers help over the phone if necessary. if necessary.
Appointments
Free Tax Prep appointments are available for households earning less than $84,000 annually. Explore tax sites and schedule an appointment at uwgc.org/taxes. For a list of items to bring to the appointment, visit uwgc.org/taxes-checklist.
AmeriCorps Support
Members of the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) are once again supporting United Way of Greater Cincinnati’s Free Tax Prep initiative. The team will be on site from January to April as part of a retooled approach to AmeriCorps programming following federal funding cuts in 2025. Last year’s NCCC team departed early as a result of those cuts. Still, during members’ abbreviated time with Free Tax Prep, they filed more than 750 returns for taxpayers in Greater Cincinnati.
About Free Tax Prep
Free Tax Prep, a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program funded by the IRS and United Way and powered by a network of volunteers, helps families achieve economic well-being. To schedule an appointment, visit uwgc.org/taxes, contact United Way 211 or email [email protected].
