FREE TAX FILING SERVICES

Since 2009, MyFreeTaxes has helped 1.4M people save $270M in tax prep fees and receive deductions and credits they may not have known they were eligible for, like the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Child Tax Credit. The service is available in English and Spanish.

Filing your tax return can be a daunting, expensive task. That’s why the United Way network provides free tax filing support to U.S. residents, through our online MyFreeTaxes service or VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program. In both cases, United Way partners with the IRS. MyFreeTaxes is the only free, national online tax filing program offered by a nonprofit.

 

It helps you file your state and federal taxes in 1 hour, from your phone, tablet or computer. The secure software guides you through the process to guarantee you get your maximum refund.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Filers who have a tax return below $82,000 per year qualify to utilize MyFreeTaxes. For a complete list of forms included (or excluded) visit MyFreeTaxes.com.

MyFreeTaxes partners with the IRS to help people easily and accurately file their federal and state taxes. 

The MyFreeTaxes filing software is protected by TaxSlayer, which uses the highest industry standards to safeguard your information. United Way does not have access to any of your personal tax information. 

We envision a world where every person in every community is thriving. We give people the educational resources and tools to build financial security to improves their lives and the lives of future generations. For millions of Americans, tax refunds and credits are essential to their financial security. That’s why United Way helps people save more of their hard-earned money. 

So far, more than 1.4 million people have used MyFreeTaxes, saving $270 million in tax preparation fees while receiving 2.1 billion in refunds. 

NOW RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS FOR THE 2026 TAX SEASON

Help income-limited households file their taxes for free and access tax credits that help them gain financial security. No experience is needed! This volunteer opportunity is great for young professionals looking to build their careers, retirees wanting a temporary volunteer position, and anyone with a passion to help others.

 

Serve as a greeter, intake specialist, or tax preparer.

Short-term commitment: Feb. 1 through April 15.

Ability to pick your location and shift.

Free IRS training and on-site support. You’re never on your own!

Attend one of our information sessions to learn more:

● Thursday, Dec. 11, 5 p.m. – 6 p.m., Burlington Public Library, 210 Court St, Burlington, IA 52601
● Tuesday, Dec. 16, Noon – 1 p.m., Burlington Public Library, 210 Court St, Burlington, IA 52601

 

If you are unable to attend any of these sessions or have questions, please contact Sarah Terwilliger, United Way of the Southeast Iowa Office Manager, at office@unitedwayseia.org or (319) 752-7831.

Ready to Sign Up?

Click the button below to register as a site greeter or tax preparer for Southeast Iowa. If you are a new volunteer, register through the opportunities designated for new volunteers. We will assist you at orientation in selecting a site that fits your schedule.

The 2026 tax season begins in January! Check back then for details on how to schedule an appointment, income qualifications, and other program information.

What is it?

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) leverages IRS-certified volunteers to provide reliable, professional assistance to help prepare your return and file it electronically, helping you maximize your refund and access valuable tax credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

Choose this service if…

● your total household income was $65,000 or less in 2025,
● or you are disabled,
● or you have limited English proficiency,
● and you can remain in-person while your taxes are prepared.

Schedule Your Appointment

At this time, in-person appointments have closed for the tax season.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

A variety of documents are needed to file your taxes. Bringing these documents also ensures you receive the best refund possible and that your appointment will go smoothly. 

What is it?

Never leave your home! Get Your Refund is a free, secure online platform that connects you with IRS-certified volunteers to complete your tax return remotely. It’s easy: Upload your documents. A certified tax preparer will text or email you with next steps within 5 business days. Your assigned tax representative will prepare your tax return. It will undergo a quality review. You’ll receive a second call to review your return. This is when you can review your paperwork, refund amount and ask questions. You will sign your tax forms electronically and your tax preparer will submit them electronically to the IRS. If needed, they will help you with any next steps.

Choose this service if…

● your total household income was $65,000 or less in 2025,
● and prefer to not leave your home to complete your taxes,
● and you prefer having a certified volunteer’s assistance to complete your taxes.

What is it?

My Free Taxes is a free, self-guided platform for anyone with a simple return. This user-friendly site provides secure tools and resources for both federal and state returns. The platform is optimized for all devices (desktop, tablet or mobile) and easy to use — most filers complete their taxes in less than an hour. Live chat and phone support with trained specialists is available, and it’s also available in Spanish (links below).  

Choose this service if…

● your total household income was $79,000 or less in 2025, ● and prefer to not leave your home to complete your taxes, ● and you need little to no assistance to help you file.

 

Let’s Get Started

Click the button to get started filing your taxes with My Free Taxes. MyFreeTaxes is also now available in Spanish at myfreetaxes.com/es.  

What You Will Need

A variety of documents are needed to file your taxes and ensure you receive the best refund possible. Click the button to see a full list of recommended documents or download a checklist here.  

Support and Help Hotline

If you need support, contact the My Free Taxes Helpline at 866-698-9435. You can also visit myfreetaxes.com/support.

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