Keep more of your money with free tax services

Completing your taxes online is easier than you might think, thanks to free tools from United Way and others.

Unless you’re a tax whiz, tax preparation can be time consuming and costly. Fortunately, United Way’s MyFreeTaxes makes it free and easy to file online yourself, regardless of your income. In many cases, the result is a bigger refund.

Claim your refund online

“MyFreeTaxes creates a win-win for working families by eliminating tax prep fees and ensuring maximum refund amounts,” said Megan Thibos, Director of Economic Mobility initiatives at United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “With these savings, families can pay off debt, build a financial safety net or simply have more money to put toward basic needs like food and utilities.”

The program is made available thanks to a partnership between United Way and H&R Block. MyFreeTaxes allows you to file state and federal returns for free online, regardless of your income, so long as your return is simple (no self-employment, investment income, or capital gains).

However, it does not process City of Detroit returns. If you live or work in the City of Detroit, and need to file city income taxes, IRS Free File program, delivered by TurboTax, is a good online option. This program is available to anyone who makes less than $36,000, or less than $69,000 for active military. It’s also available to anyone who qualifies for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The IRS Free File program delivered by TurboTax program includes your federal, state and local tax returns and can also handle self-employed tax returns.

Simplify more, access more

At United Way for Southeastern Michigan, we work to help households become stable. Part of that effort includes helping people boost their family finances and keep more of what they earn. Increased refunds can help families start a savings account, pay bills or make important purchases.

“We found that a lot of people fail to claim the credits they’re entitled to simply because taxes are complicated, or because they don’t know that they qualify,” Megan said. “We focus on simplifying the process so that families in our region can get more money back in refunds.”

“When we unite with other organizations toward common goals, we’re able to make a major difference in local communities,” Megan said.

An added boost for working families

We’re also making sure that families that qualify file for the EITC and other tax credits. This gives working individuals with low to moderate incomes more money in their pockets at tax time. Families with and without children are all eligible for the credit, though the amount depends on income and family situation.

Over the last three years, an average of 85,000 Detroit residents collectively claimed nearly $300 million each year in EITC refunds. Additional tax credits, such as the child tax credit, can boost families’ refunds even more.

“We’re excited about the 2020 tax season,” Megan said. “We know the tremendous positive impact that is made when families are able to add a bit more money to their budgets.”

Don’t miss out on claiming your credit! File your taxes online at MyFreeTaxes.com or the IRS Free File program delivered by TurboTax, or call 2-1-1 for more information on tax preparation services.

If you need more help, free in-person assistance is also available through United Way partners at the Accounting Aid Society and Wayne Metro Community Action Agency.