United Way's Free Tax Assistance Program begins

United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg has launched its Free Tax Assistance Program for the 2025 tax season and will offer in-person service at two Henrico libraries.

The free service is staffed by IRS-certified volunteers who ensure local families and taxpayers file their tax returns accurately and on time. Both in-person service at various tax sites (including the Fairfield Area Library and North Park Branch Library in Henrico) and virtual tax prep services are available.

Qualifying families and individuals with incomes of $67,000 or less are eligible for the assistance. In addition to the two Henrico sites, 10 other in-person sites are available in the City of Richmond and Chesterfield, Goochland and Hanover counties.

The program also is working to raise awareness of refundable tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit, 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, people 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.