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News

February 17, 2026

Eligible Residents Can Get Free Tax Prep, Resources with VITA Program

Eligible Pennsylvania residents can now schedule appointments with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for free tax preparation.

VITA Program

The VITA program is an IRS-sponsored initiative designed to provide free tax preparation services to individuals and families who struggle with the complexities of filing taxes independently. The program typically serves low- to moderate-income earners, those with disabilities, the elderly, and individuals with limited English proficiency.

Tax preparation is offered in person at designated VITA sites, with services provided by IRS-certified volunteers who are trained to assist with accurately filing federal, state, and local taxes.

VITA volunteers can help eligible taxpayers claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit (CTC), and any other credits or deductions that might increase their funds. The VITA program helps households to save money and avoid the pitfalls of using costly or predatory tax services.

VITA services are available to those who meet the following criteria:

Households earning approximately $60,000 or less annually (the exact figure is subject to change from organization to organization)

Individuals with disabilities, senior citizens, and those needing language support in filing tax return

To find a VITA site, dial 211, visit the PA 211 website, or use the IRS’s VITA locator tool online. Be sure to make appointments in advance as many sites operate on a seasonal basis and appointments can fill up quickly. 

Filing Independently

For those who prefer to file taxes independently, but still want access to free resources, MyFreeTaxes.com is an option sponsored by United Way and powered by TaxSlayer. It allows individuals to file federal and state tax returns online for free. The platform is user friendly and designed for households with an annual income of $89,000 or less.

Filers can easily navigate the tax preparation process at their own pace. The software guides users step by step, helping to ensure they claim all eligible credits and deductions, such as the EITC, CTC, and education-related credits. The platform also features live support from IRS-certified specialists.

News

February 10, 2025

United Way, Human Services Center Mon Valley Offering Free Tax Prep Services

The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania and the Human Services Center Mon Valley are offering free tax preparation services for qualifying families this tax season.

To find answers for common tax season questions, view this flier in English and Spanish.

United Way

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-certified volunteers will help households earning up to $65,000 per year to get the maximum possible refund. They will also help qualifying taxpayers to get an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which can help to pay down bills, fund a child’s education, or build savings.

There will be no charge, no matter the size of the refund, for those assisted by the United Way.

Free tax sites located in the region will serve Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, Washington, and Westmoreland counties. 

Those interested can schedule an appointment online or call 888-856-2773. Taxpayers can also file their own federal and state taxes for free online through United Way.

Download this flier for more information and locations.

Human Services Center Mon Valley

The Human Services Center Mon Valley will offer free tax preparation from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through April 9.

Families with a total household income up to $65,000 or individuals up to $45,000 qualify for services. Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling 2-1-1.

The center is located at 413 Penn Avenue in Turtle Creek. There will be free parking on site, and the center is located on the bus line.

For more information about documents needed for tax preparation, download this flier.