TAX PREPARATION

Free Tax Preparation – United Way of Fairfield County

If you are sick, please stay home and call 740-653-0643 to reschedule your appointment.


Free Tax Preparation Services



The United Way of Fairfield County offers free tax return preparation through the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) and TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) programs.


SERVICE LOCATIONS

  • United Way of Fairfield County, 115 S Broad Street, Lancaster, OH
  • Fairfield County DD – Pickerington Regional Office, 7140 Reynoldsburg-Baltimore Rd, Pickerington, OH


Hours: By appointment only starting January 2026 ending TBD.
Call 740-653-0643 to schedule.


PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Our certified IRS volunteers provide basic tax return preparation for households earning $67,000 or less. If your income is below $79,000, you can file yourself for free at myfreetaxes.com.


TCE PROGRAM

Tax preparation services are also available through the TCE program for individuals 60 years and older—even if income exceeds $67,000.


WHAT WE CAN HELP WITH:

  • Federal, State, and School District returns
  • Family Law – Divorce, Child Support, Custody
  • Expungement and Sealing of Records
  • Foreclosures and Garnishments
  • Protection Orders
  • Other civil legal matters
  • Notary services

WHAT WE CANNOT PREPARE:

  • Rental income
  • Schedule C (business) with losses, expenses over $35K, depreciation, or employees
  • Complex capital gains/losses
    (Schedule D)
  • Inherited property
  • Farm income
  • Schedule K-1
    (investment-only returns may be allowed)

Please see a paid preparer if your return falls into any of these categories.


WHAT TO BRING


  • Valid photo ID (you and your spouse)
  • Social Security cards or statements for all listed on the return
  • All wage/income documents
    (W-2, 1099-R, 1099-MISC, etc.)
  • Interest and dividend statements
    (1099-INT, 1099-DIV)
  • Self-employment info: income, expenses, mileage, 1099-NEC/K forms
  • Copy of last year’s tax return
    (if available)
  • Bank routing & account number for direct deposit
  • Childcare provider info: name, tax ID, and amount paid
  • Form 1095-A
    (Marketplace Health Coverage)
  • IRS Identity Theft PIN if you receive one

Note: For married filing jointly, both spouses must be present to sign.


Drop-Off Appointments


  • Drop-offs are by appointment only
  • Bring ID, SSN cards, and all tax documents
  • Complete and sign all forms at drop-off
  • Brief interview required at drop-off
  • We will call when your return is ready for review & signature
  • Returns are e-filed after final review and approval

Need Help Now?


You can also complete your own return for free using myfreetaxes.com.


IMPORTANT NOTES


  • We do NOT prepare city tax returns. Please contact your local city tax office.
  • In the event of a Level 2 Snow Emergency, all appointments are canceled.
    You must call to reschedule.

HAVE QUESTIONS?

Call 740-653-0643.