Mobilize Your Community: Host Free Tax Preparation Events

Navigating the tax system is a challenge for many individuals, particularly those with limited income or experience. Without a clear understanding of tax codes, families can miss out on significant refunds from credits they are entitled to receive. The cost of professional tax assistance is often prohibitive, leaving many to handle the complex process alone and risk costly errors.

Community-based organizations, including government agencies, faith communities, and civic associations, are uniquely positioned to address this issue. By hosting free tax preparation events, you can provide a vital service that saves families unnecessary filing costs and ensures they claim important credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit.

To Get Started:

• Assemble a Qualified Volunteer Team: Identify and recruit individuals within your organization or community who are financial professionals or can be trained to provide tax preparation support.

• Partner with the IRS VITA Program: Formalize your services by partnering with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. VITA provides free training, certification, and software to volunteers serving eligible individuals.

• Establish a Schedule of Events: Plan your tax preparation events annually, typically between late January and the April tax deadline. Secure a suitable location and create a clear schedule for appointments or walk-ins.

• Promote the Service to Your Community: Develop an outreach plan to ensure eligible individuals know about your free service. Promote the events through newsletters, social media, and announcements, and partner with local organizations to broaden your reach.

• Government

  Government agencies can provide free tax preparation for all, removing financial barriers and delivering real relief. Invest in community well-being, expand outreach, and demonstrate how public institutions advance financial health nationwide.

  Best Practices / Innovative Programs:

  1. IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers free tax preparation services for individuals earning $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency. Government agencies can partner with VITA to host internal tax preparation sites.
     

  2. Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) hosts events to assist taxpayers with unresolved IRS issues, providing guidance and support for tax-related challenges.
     

  3. The City of San Francisco partners with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program to provide free tax preparation services for employees, ensuring access to tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

• Faith Community

  Faith communities can address local needs directly by leading free tax preparation programs. By mobilizing their volunteer networks, congregations provide essential financial assistance that strengthens the economic stability of local families.

  Best Practices / Innovative Programs:

  1. Catholic Charities in Washington, DC, provides free, volunteer-supported tax preparation to income-eligible residents, ensuring that families claim the refunds and credits they deserve.
     

  2. Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago sponsors a seasonal IRS-certified tax service, offering free assistance on select Saturdays to individuals earning below $70,000. This longstanding ministry brings trusted, compassionate support directly into the faith community.
     

  3. Jewish Family Services of San Diego Offers financial and tax assistance programs as part of its community support services for low-income families and seniors.
     

  4. First Baptist Church of Glenarden, Maryland has independently organized free tax preparation events for its congregation and the surrounding community.
     

  5. Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota provides financial counseling, which includes tax preparation assistance.

• Civic Association

  Civic associations strengthen communities by organizing free tax preparation programs. Members bring professional skills and a commitment to delivering this essential service, creating a measurable local impact. These efforts help families increase annual income and gain greater financial security.

  Best Practices / Innovative Programs:

  1. United Way Financial Empowerment Centers partner with civic groups to provide free tax preparation services through the VITA program, helping families claim tax credits and refunds.
     

  2. Entertainment Community Fund hosts VITA sites in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, offering in-person, drop-off, and virtual tax preparation services.