Need Help Filing Taxes?
The IRS is phasing out paper tax refund checks
Nothing changes about how you file.
Call 211 to schedule an appointment at one of our VITA sites or file online at hwmuw.org/myfreetaxes.
Before your appointment.
Bring a bank statement or money card statement to your appointment. Refunds will be distributed electronically.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Our VITA program offers free in-person tax prep by our IRS certified volunteers.
-
Income limit under $70,000
-
Take ALL of these documents with you to your appointment:
Social Security card (or letter from the Social Security Administration with SSN) for each family member and current (not expired) driver’s license or state ID card for adults
W-2 form for all jobs worked the previous year
1099 forms for other income, including unemployment, pensions, and retirement accounts
All documentation regarding income and expenses (including mileage) if self-employed
Form 1095-A if coverage was purchased via the Marketplace
Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI) letter
Copy of last year’s tax return (if available)
Last year’s heating bills (11/2024 - 10/2025 or January 2025 bill showing total heating costs for those 12 months - for Home Heating Credit
Proof of rent or mortgage and property tax payments (Ex. receipts or lease)
Childcare provider’s name, address, and federal tax identification number
Copy of 1098-T and Student Account statement if an education credit is to be claimed
Blank, voided check or something from the bank showing name, routing and account number for direct deposit (if desired)
Any other tax-related letters or documents you have received
My Free Taxes Online Service
A secure, online tool that makes it easy for households to file their own taxes.
-
Self-preparation is completely free for any tax payer.
To file online with the assistance of the MyFreeTaxes helpline there is an income limit of $84,000 or less.
-
> Visit the MyFreeTaxes website at hwmuw.org/myfreetaxes
> Select your filing option and follow the on screen prompts.
MyFreeTaxes includes a helpline that is staffed by call specialists who are IRS certified should you have questions along the way.
Everyone should file a tax return—money from tax credits is available; you just need to claim it.
Earned Income Tax Credit:
If you worked and meet income guidelines you could qualify for hundreds or even thousands of dollars back. Have kids? You may qualify for more.
Home Heating Credit:
If you paid for heat this winter and meet income guidelines, you may qualify for the Michigan Home Heating Credit
Due to the individualized nature of tax situations, it is recommended that taxpayers seek assistance from tax professionals or visit the Michigan Department of Treasury website to determine eligibility criteria.
Our volunteer tax professionals care about your financial well-being and can help you claim all of the tax credits you deserve.
Need Help Navigating Services?
Sometimes, it’s hard to know what you need. That’s okay.
Just call 2-1-1 and we’ll help you figure it out, step by step.
You’re Not Alone. We’re Here.
Whether it’s a crisis or just a hard season, support is closer than you think. Let us help you take the next step toward stability, dignity, and hope.