United Way again offering free tax-preparation help

In 2006, when the United Way of Central Alabama offered its free tax-preparation service for the first time, only 38 returns were filed, according to UWCA officials.

But in 2016, UWCA’s IRS-certified volunteers helped prepare more than 3,200 tax returns for low- to moderate-income families, resulting in $2.5 million in refunds.

This gives the community an economic boost and puts more money in the hands of hardworking people, United Way officials said.

And the service is back this year, with more than 60 preparers offering help to individuals and families earning less than $54,000 for tax year 2016, according to a UWCA news release

Not only do filers avoid tax preparation fees — about $200 per person — but they get all the tax credits available to them.

This includes the Earned Income Tax Credit, ranging from $2,600 to $4,600.

Most returns are ready in seven days, and UWCA’s drop-off service helps people get their taxes prepared around their work schedules.

Through its Financial Stability Partnership, UWCA not only offers tax help but links people to such services as financial education, disability resources and credit counseling.

Many clients return for free tax preparation year after year, often bringing family members as new clients, and the volunteers enjoy working with a wide variety of people, according to UWCA officials.

To make an appointment or get more information — including a list of the documents needed — call 211 or 888-421-1266 or go to uwca.org/taxes.

United Way also offers free tax preparation online at myfreetaxes.com.