CINCINNATI (May 26, 2026) – Volunteers with United Way of Greater Cincinnati’s Free Tax Prep initiative helped file almost 9,300 returns for individuals and families by Tax Day, exceeding last year’s season total. More than 500 IRS-certified volunteers worked alongside taxpayers throughout Greater Cincinnati, saving them about $2.5 million in preparation fees and helping them claim more than $11.1 million in refunds.
“This year’s results show what’s possible when our community comes together to support one another,” said Moira Weir, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Cincinnati. “We are grateful to the volunteers who gave their time and expertise to help their neighbors. The prep fees saved and refunds claimed help families cover essentials, reduce financial stress and strengthen our local economy.”
Free Tax Prep is a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program funded by the IRS and United Way. We believe all families should be able to achieve economic well-being, and Free Tax Prep volunteers play a key role in supporting the organization’s mission by keeping more money in local families’ pockets.
Volunteers helped Kelli Jo Bradford prepare her taxes at the Clermont County Public Library’s Union Township branch. She said they “showed up with competence, kindness and zero judgment.”
Jeff Bertsch, a retired insurance professional, helped Bradford navigate the process. “It makes you feel proud that you were able to help someone that needed it,” he said. “And the gratitude from people when you’re finished doing it is amazing.”
For a third year, an AmeriCorps team was assigned to United Way’s Free Tax Prep initiative in Greater Cincinnati. During their time with us, nine members of the National Civilian Community Corps filed more than 1,500 returns, helping taxpayers claim more than $1.5 million in refunds. United Way thanks the team for their positivity and dedication to serving others.
Free Tax Prep services begin in late January and continue through April. For information about becoming a Free Tax Prep volunteer next tax season, email [email protected] or visit www.uwgc.org/taxvolunteer.
