CINCINNATI (April, 30 2025) – Volunteers with United Way of Greater Cincinnati’s Free Tax Prep initiative helped file 9,102 returns for individuals and families by Tax Day, exceeding last year’s overall total of 8,474. 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 $10.3 million in refunds.
“This is painless. I would definitely come back,” said Teri, a Forest Park resident. She called United Way 211 to schedule an appointment to get her taxes done at a Free Tax Prep site within Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. “The volunteers were very patient, friendly and knowledgeable.”
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 vital role in supporting the organization’s mission by keeping more money in local families’ pockets.
“We are grateful for dedicated volunteers who make a real, lasting impact for so many local families,” said Moira Weir, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Cincinnati. “The money they helped neighbors save will be used to cover daily expenses, build financial stability and invest in their futures.”
An 11-member AmeriCorps team assigned to the Free Tax Prep initiative in Greater Cincinnati had to exit the program early due to federal funding cuts. During their abbreviated time with us, the members of the National Civilian Community Corps filed more than 750 returns, helping taxpayers save more than $200,000 in filing fees and secure more than $600,000 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, with in-person, drop-off and virtual options available. For information about becoming a Free Tax Prep volunteer next tax season, email [email protected] or visit www.uwgc.org/taxvolunteer.
