United Way of Greater Cincinnati needs volunteers to prepare tax returns for thousands of individuals in need during the 2025 tax filing season, which starts in January.
According to President and CEO Moira Weir, Free Tax Prep volunteers play a vital role in supporting the organization’s mission by keeping more money in local families’ pockets.
Last season, volunteers filed over 8,000 returns, saving taxpayers more than $2 million in filing fees and helping them claim over $9 million in federal refunds. This season, UWGC hopes to build on that success.
“American families spend over $275 on average each year on tax prep and filing fees,” Weir said.
“Our Free Tax Prep Initiative helps families save money that can make a big difference – like paying rent, making a credit card payment, catching up on medical bills or fixing a car,” she added. “Without our amazing volunteers, we wouldn’t see the lasting impact this service has on our community.”
How to volunteer
For those interested in volunteering, UWGC will host online information sessions. This brief session will answer questions about this community support effort, necessary certifications and skills needed to volunteer.
Volunteers don’t need to be a tax expert. There are roles for people of all interests, and UWGC provides training and ongoing support. Individuals can volunteer alone or as part of a group at a designated tax site.
UWGC is seeking volunteers who are:
- Personable and friendly
- Comfortable working with a diverse group of clients
- Willing to ask questions
- Ready to learn and use tax preparation and facilitation software
- Willing to learn new skills
- Able to adhere to high ethical standards
Free Tax Prep training will begin Wednesday, Dec. 4, and will cover topics such as the anatomy of a tax return, IRS forms, tax software and what happens at a tax site. Services begin in late January and continue through April, with in-person, drop-off, and virtual options available.
Free Tax Prep is a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program funded by the IRS and United Way.
For more information about becoming a Free Tax Prep volunteer, email freetax@uwgc.org or visit www.uwgc.org/taxvolunteer.
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