Newsroom Update

United Way Launches Annual Free Tax Preparation Service

RICHMOND, Va. (Jan. 31, 2025) – United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg has launched its Free Tax Assistance Program for the 2025 tax season. This service, offered at no cost, is staffed by IRS-certified volunteers who ensure local families and individuals file their tax returns accurately and on time. With both in-person tax sites and virtual tax prep services available, the program ensures families receive the refunds and credits they are entitled to, promoting financial stability.

United Way’s IRS-certified tax prep team will assist qualifying families and individuals with incomes of $67,000 or less. Twelve tax prep sites are available throughout the City of Richmond and surrounding counties, including Goochland, Chesterfield, Henrico and Hanover. 

The program raises awareness of refundable tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a federal benefit that can boost earnings for low- to moderate-income workers. Many eligible taxpayers miss out on this benefit simply because they are unaware, they qualify. EITC eligibility depends on factors like income, marital status, and number of children.  

“By supporting financial stability for families, we’re helping to build stronger, more resilient communities,” said Katina Williams, Chief Impact Officer of United Way. “Our tax assistance program not only helps families avoid debt but also give them the tools they need to thrive now and in the future.” 

Operating hours and appointment scheduling for in-person tax prep can be found on United Way’s website. For Spanish and Portuguese speakers, translation services are available at The Sacred Heart Center in Richmond offer. Additionally, individuals earning up to $84,000 can access do-it-yourself tax prep at GetYourRefund.org/uwgrp, with free coaching from IRS-certified volunteers.  

“Our tax assistance program has been supporting the community since 2002 and could not exist without our dedicated volunteers,” said Cara Cardotti, Director of Tax Assistance Programs at United Way. “If you’re looking for a meaningful way to support your community, consider joining us as a greeter, tax preparer, or interpreter.” 

In 2024, the United Way Tax Assistance volunteers helped over 3,300 community members recover $3.6 million in tax returns and saved participants over $845,500 in tax preparation fees. 

To learn more about the program and tax sites, visit United Way’s Tax Assistance website or contact tax@yourunitedway.org.  

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About United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg 

United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg is dedicated to improving lives and mobilizing the caring power of communities. Working hand in hand with nonprofit partners, donors, and volunteers, United Way unites resources from the community to deliver effective programs and initiatives that create positive, lasting change. This reach extends across 13 diverse localities, encompassing the cities of Richmond, Petersburg, Hopewell, and Colonial Heights, as well as the counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent, Powhatan, and Prince George. Learn more at www.YourUnitedWay.org. [yourunitedway.org

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