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Free Tax Preparation

United Way Fresno and Madera Counties provides free tax preparations to low- and moderate-income individuals, families, and seniors every tax season, from the end of January through Tax Day in April. Tax returns are prepared by trained and IRS-certified volunteers at local community organizations. Last season, we helped residents receive $7,583,589 in tax refunds while adding $2,918,000 in tax credits into the region.

Appointments for the 2025 Free Tax Prep season can be made starting on January 20th by calling 211.
Make sure to check the “Item Checklist” below to know what to bring to your appointment.

Online alternatives to Free Tax Prep are available year-round at:

Appointments for the 2025 Free Tax Prep season can be made starting on January 20th by calling 211.
Make sure to check the “Item Checklist” below to know what to bring to your appointment.

Online alternatives to Free Tax Prep are available year-round at:

ARE YOU SELF EMPLOYED?

The MyFreeTaxes Self-Employed Tax Guides equip entrepreneurs with the information they need to prepare for tax season, file their taxes, and maximize their refunds using free online software available through MyFreeTaxes. United Way created three versions of the MyFreeTaxes Self-Employed Tax Guides to meet the specific needs of general small business owners, gig economy entrepreneurs, and home-based child care businesses. Visit www.myfreetaxes.com/selfemployed for more information.

TAX CREDITS

You may qualify for other tax credits, like the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC). CalEITC is a cash-back credit that puts money back into the pockets of California’s working families and individuals. Find out more about CalEITC here.

Click here to get a detailed breakdown of all of the cash-back credits our team will try to get for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will it cost me anything to get my taxes done?
No, our services are completely free for individuals who qualify.

Why should I use your Free Tax Services?
We can help you save money and get money back on your taxes.*
Our team will help you maximize your return, often earning clients thousands of dollars in credits through CalEITC and federal Earned Income Tax Credits.

Can you help me if I do not speak English?
We have volunteers and staff who speak Spanish. For other languages we have a phone interpreter that can help translate.

Is tax help available year round?
We recommend that you file your return on-time to avoid any penalties and late fee.

Are United Way Volunteers trained and certified to prepare tax returns?
All of our volunteers are trained and certified as Certified Tax Preparers through IRS-approved training.

How long does the process take to complete my tax returns?
It ranges from 45 mins to 1 hour and 30 minutes

What if I forgot my social security card or ID?
You will need both physical Social Security Card and ID card to get assistance on our VITA sites

What if I do not qualify for filing assistance?
You can prepare your tax returns at myfreetaxes.com: a free resource for preparing most basic tax returns for both federal and state filing

I need previous tax returns prepared. Can you help me?
We can assist clients needing to file 2019, 2020,2021, 2022, and 2023 tax returns

How do I sign up to volunteer with the United Way Fresno and Madera Counties?
It’s simple! Fill out this form to get the process started and a staff member will reach out!

Do I have to pay taxes on Social Security benefits?
SSI Benefit is nontaxable; however, it will tax the taxpayer only if they receive other income including pension or other taxable income.

How do I track my federal refund?
You can track your refund status on the IRS website using the “Where’s My Refund?” Tool.