For many families across Massachusetts, tax season isn’t just paperwork — it’s possibility. 

A refund can mean catching up on bills, paying down debt, fixing the car, or setting aside savings for a child’s future. And for households navigating rising costs, that refund can be the difference between instability and breathing room. 

United Way of Massachusetts Bay partners with community action agencies across the region such as Action for Boston Community Development, Lawrence CommunityWorks and Quincy Community Action Programs to expand access to free tax preparation services. Through the Free Tax Prep network, families can file safely and claim valuable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit—putting thousands of dollars back into household budgets and strengthening local economies. 

Through a statewide network of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites operated by the MASSCAP and partner organizations, households earning under $70,000 a year can receive IRS-certified tax preparation at no cost. Last year, approximately 30,000 Massachusetts residents were served at VITA sites statewide, bringing an estimated $16 million back into local communities. 

The impact is significant. 

“When you think about free tax preparation combined with access to the Earned Income Tax Credit and other tax credits,” MASSCAP Executive Director, Joe Diamond says. “It’s one of the most powerful anti-poverty tools that there is.” 

MASSCAP has a statewide network of 23 community action agencies dedicated to reducing poverty, strengthening families, and providing economic stability for low-income Massachusetts residents. MASSCAP has joined United Way of Massachusetts Bay in the Assets for Opportunity Coalition, working to advance economic mobility and asset-building to help families build wealth and escape poverty. 

“Life is getting more and more expensive,” says Program Manager for Financial Empowerment, Kwabenga Ayim. “None of our other services can provide cash or money in hand. But you get a second wind or a second chance with your tax refund.” 

Economists estimate that for every dollar returned through tax refunds, about $1.44 circulates back into the local economy — helping stabilize families and small businesses alike.  

Clients can schedule appointments online or by phone and choose in-person, drop-off, or virtual filing options. Most appointments take about an hour, though more complex situations can take longer. 

One of the most important messages this tax season, advocates say, is that free help exists. An estimated 75,000 eligible Massachusetts residents do not claim the credits available to them each year. 

“There’s just some predatory practices that happen in the tax business,” says Ayim. 

VITA sites aim to ensure families receive the full value of credits they qualify for — including the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child & Family Tax Credit, education credits, and credits for caregivers supporting elderly or disabled family members. 

While demand remains strong, funding for VITA sites has declined in recent years, reducing volunteer recruitment and coordination capacity. 

“We have seen a tremendous drop in volunteer participation, but not in production, output or need,” Ayim says. 

The elimination of the federal IRS Direct File option this year has also reduced free filing pathways for some residents. Despite these challenges, the network continues to operate roughly 80 VITA sites statewide, relying on IRS-certified volunteers and partnerships with schools and community organizations. 

“The process of doing your taxes is a financial empowerment exercise,” Diamond says, noting partnerships with the state Treasurer’s Office to connect families with savings programs and financial literacy tools. 

“We just do our best to give people back what’s theirs and what they’re owed,” a coordinator said. 

Find Free Tax Help: Massachusetts residents earning $70,000 or less can find a free VITA site near them.

This tax season, that appointment could mean more than a refund — it could mean stability, opportunity, and a stronger start to the year ahead. 

If you earn $70,000 or less, you likely qualify for free tax preparation at a VITA site. 

You can: 

These sites are staffed by IRS-certified volunteers and reviewed for accuracy — and they are among the most rigorously audited tax preparation options available. Unlike many commercial tax preparers, VITA sites do not take fees out of your refund. 

Free help is available. If you qualify, you should not have to pay to file. 

Bring all required documents. W-2s, 1099s, Social Security numbers (or ITINs), last year’s return if available, and childcare expense documentation. 

Ask about credits. You may qualify for: 

Don’t leave money on the table. Refundable credits can significantly increase what you receive. 

Appointments typically take about an hour, depending on complexity, and each return is reviewed for quality assurance before filing. 

Locate a VITA site near you.