News : Free Tax Preparation Program Supported by United Way Returns in 2026

United Way of East Central Iowa (UWECI) will be offering its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for the 12th year in 2026. The program is scheduled to run from Monday, February 2 to Friday, April 10. Scheduling of appointments is now open and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You may be eligible to receive tax help if you are a resident of Linn, Jones, Benton, Cedar, or Iowa counties and your household earns less than $69,000 per year.

 

This season’s VITA sites are:

Appointments are required and must be scheduled online at uweci.org/vitaclient. No walk-ins are accepted and there is no call center for clients to make an appointment. For questions about the VITA program, including site information and new eligibility requirements like bank account information, please visit uweci.org/vitaclient.

“Our VITA program lives out United Way’s belief in community members volunteering in, investing in, and advocating for their friends and neighbors,” said UWECI President and CEO Kristin Roberts. “The success of VITA is powered by dedicated volunteers who care deeply about the program and those they serve.”

Last year, more than 80 volunteers contributed over 5,100 hours to help local residents file their taxes at no cost. Their commitment brought back over $2 million to individuals in our community and makes it possible for individuals and families in East Central Iowa to access this vital service, supporting financial security across our community.

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United Way of East Central Iowa (UWECI) believes in a strong, thriving community where everyone belongs. Together with its partners, volunteers, advocates, and donors, UWECI creates solutions to fill various gaps of need. By focusing on initiatives within economic mobility, childhood success, access to healthcare, and safety net services, UWECI improves the lives of individuals in Benton, Cedar, Iowa, Jones, and Linn counties. To learn more about this life changing strategy, visit https://www.uweci.org/what-we-do/our-focus/unitetoinspire/.