Free Tax Preparation, Filing for Eligible Rhode Islanders

United Way-led Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers certified, trusted help at more than 20 sites statewide

With tax season underway, eligible Rhode Islanders can again have their federal and state income taxes prepared and filed for free through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Led by United Way and its partners, the program is available at more than 20 locations statewide and serves households that earned $69,000 or less last year.

VITA provides IRS-certified tax preparation services at no cost, helping working individuals and families avoid the expense of tax prep and filing fees while ensuring their returns are accurate and complete. The program also makes sure taxpayers receive the money they’re due in tax refunds and credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit, which can significantly reduce tax burden and increase refunds.

The VITA program is especially important this year as taxpayers prepare for upcoming IRS changes in 2026, including no longer issuing paper check refunds. The change requires taxpayers to have a bank account or another secure electronic option when they file. Many Rhode Island households are unbanked or underbanked, and taxpayers who do not plan ahead could experience delays receiving their refund. VITA sites can help navigate these changes for local taxpayers.

“For a lot of working families, every dollar matters, especially right now,” said Cortney Nicolato, president and CEO of United Way. “VITA helps people keep the money they’ve already earned and get their refunds back safely—without having to pay for tax services. At a time when rent, groceries, and utilities costs keep climbing, VITA puts real relief in the hands of Rhode Islanders and helps to stabilize and strengthen families.”

Eligibility for VITA is based on income and household size, with households needing to earn $69,000 or less annually to qualify for services. More than half of VITA sites offer assistance in both English and Spanish, and returns are filed electronically. Rhode Islanders with questions about eligibility, locations, or scheduling an appointment for tax preparation should call 211.

Last year, more than 22,000 federal and state returns were completed by VITA in Rhode Island, returning $24 million to working households by way of the refunds and tax credits they were due, and in saved tax preparation and filing fees.