United Way offers free tax prep program to low-income families

Paul Guggenheimer
Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020 5:53 p.m. | Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020 5:53 p.m.

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FILE- This Feb. 13, 2019, file photo shows multiple forms printed from the Internal Revenue Service web page that are used for 2018 U.S. federal tax returns in Zelienople, Pa. If you don’t think you will be able to complete and file your taxes on time, request an extension. Filing an extension helps taxpayers avoid penalties for a late return, according to the IRS. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic, File)

United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is working with local agencies to provide free, in-person tax preparation for low-to-moderate-income individuals and families in the region.

The program ensures that low-income residents can maximize their refund, United Way said in a statement.

Hundreds of people have volunteered to help prepare taxes this year and appointments are now being scheduled in Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, Washington and Westmoreland counties.

“This program goes well beyond helping people prepare their taxes,” said Alena Anderson, United Way’s program manager for United for Families. “It’s an opportunity for families to get back critical dollars they have earned throughout the year. That money helps them support everyday needs like food, transportation and utilities that they otherwise may struggle to meet.”

Many families who use United Way’s Free Tax Prep service are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit, a benefit for working people with low to moderate income. Taxpayers who qualify for and claim the credit could pay less federal tax, or no tax, and get a refund of up to $6,660, said the agency.

“Taxes can be complicated, and many people don’t know about all the benefits that are available to them,” said Angela Reynolds, United Way’s senior director for United for Families. “Our free tax prep program ensures that struggling families receive those crucial benefits, which they may need to get by.

Free online tax assistance is available for individuals and families with a total annual income of up to $66,000. Households with a total annual income of up to $55,000 may qualify for free in-person tax preparation, according to United Way. April 15 is the tax filing deadline.

Appointments for free tax preparation are required and can be made by dialing 2-1-1, text 898-211, or visiting bit.ly/FreeTaxPrep2020.