Shay Smith, manager of United Way California Capital Region’s Free Tax Preparation program, welcomes clients last year. Photo courtesy of United Way

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Residents throughout the Sacramento region are eligible to file their taxes online or in person for free through United Way California Capital Region’s Free Tax Preparation program that runs through April 15.

Households that earned less than $67,000 in 2024 can file for free and trained tax volunteers will help maximize cash back from state and federal credits, including the federal and state Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC and CalEITC).

United Way’s Free Tax Preparation program saves participants an average of $200 in preparer fees.

The program provides free tax help virtually and in person in multiple languages and locations across Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties. Visit YourFreeTaxPrep.org or call 2-1-1 in Sacramento. 

“Many families in our region depend on receiving a return from their taxes, and with United Way’s Free Tax Preparation program, our trained volunteers will help them maximize their returns,” said Dr. Dawnté Early, president and CEO, United Way California Capital Region. “It’s simple, secure, saves participants money on tax preparation fees and ensures local households keep more of their hard-earned money.” 

United Way recommends filing as early as possible to receive tax credits sooner. Each year, United Way helps thousands of families collectively receive nearly $10 million in tax credits. Hundreds of program volunteers donate thousands of hours of their time helping residents file taxes online or at dozens of in-person sites across the region. More volunteers are needed this year. For more information about becoming a United Way Free Tax Preparation volunteer, visit YourFreeTaxPrep.org. 

United Way California Capital Region has been a driving force across the region for more than 100 years, listening, responding and taking comprehensive action to meet local needs. From advancing youth opportunities and helping children excel in school to strengthening local communities and investing in families’ financial security and health, United Way mobilizes communities to build a future where everyone can reach their full potential and thrive.

Working across Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties, the local United Way provides books and literacy tutoring, addresses housing and food security, leads the region’s largest tax preparation initiative, launched Sacramento’s first guaranteed income program, works with foster youth across school districts and leads the Community Schools initiative in West Sacramento. To make a donation, go online to YourLocalUnitedWay.org.