Lakeland, FL – United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) is offering free tax preparation services for the 2026 tax season through its MyFreeTaxes® online platform and in-person IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
These services help qualifying residents in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties file accurate federal and state tax returns at no cost, ensuring families keep more of their hard-earned money.
MyFreeTaxes® is a secure online filing platform available to U.S. taxpayers earning under $89,000. Since 2009, the program has helped file more than 1.5 million tax returns nationwide, saving filers an estimated $318 million in preparation fees and securing more than $2.1 billion in refunds.
“Taxes can be overwhelming and expensive for families in our community,” said Christina Criser Jackson, President & CEO of United Way of Central Florida. “MyFreeTaxes.com gives families a free, easy-to-use option to file accurately and access the credits they deserve.”
Most users complete their return in under an hour using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. The platform screens for key credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, and offers IRS-trained phone support in English and Spanish.
Free MyFreeTaxes support is available: · Through April 15: 10 a.m.–8 p.m. ET daily · April 21–October 15: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. ET, Monday–Friday 866-698-9435
More resources are available at MyFreeTaxes.com.
For those who prefer face-to-face assistance, UWCF offers in-person VITA appointments at the Carol Jenkins Barnett United Way Children’s Resource Center (CRC) and partner locations. Appointments at the CRC are held on Wednesdays and can be scheduled online at: https://taxprepcrc.rsvpify.com Questions or accessibility needs: 863-648-1500 ext. 294
Last year, UWCF volunteers prepared 1,726 tax returns, saving residents approximately $403,709 in preparation fees and helping families access vital tax credits.
United Way of Central Florida is committed to improving health, education, and financial stability across the community. To learn more about free tax preparation, volunteer opportunities, or financial stability programs, visit uwcf.org/taxes.
