United Way Offers In-Person and Online Free Tax Filing Options for the 2026 Tax Season

WICHITA, Kan., Jan. 16, 2026 – United Way of the Plains is making it easier for income-limited households to file their taxes for free by offering multiple filing options designed to meet different needs and comfort levels. Through United Way’s Free Tax Filing Services program, households can choose in-person assistance, virtual support, or a self-guided option during the 2026 tax season, which runs Feb. 1 through April 15.

Last year, 145 volunteers prepared 6,519 returns, helping residents access a record-breaking $8 million in refunds, money that often supports essential needs like housing, food, medical care, and transportation.

In-Person Tax Filing

For residents who prefer face-to-face assistance, United Way offers free, in-person tax preparation at sites across Wichita and Sedgwick, Butler, Cowley, Geary, Marion, and Pratt counties. IRS-certified volunteers prepare returns for households earning $69,000 or less through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) initiative. Appointments are now open and can be scheduled online at unitedwayplains.org/taxservices. If clients are unable to book online, dial 2-1-1 to schedule an appointment over the phone.

Online Tax Filing with Volunteer Support

For those who prefer to file from home or need more flexibility, Get Your Refund connects households earning $69,000 or less with IRS-certified volunteers who prepare returns remotely through a secure online portal. This is a great option for people who do not have a local VITA site, or those with limited transportation or mobility. Filers upload documents, communicate directly with a preparer, review their return, and sign electronically. The Get Your Refund portal opens Feb. 2, 2026.

Self-Guided Online Tax Filing

Residents comfortable filing their own taxes, and earning $89,000 or less may choose MyFreeTaxes, a free, self-guided platform that supports both federal and state returns on any device. Designed for simple tax situations, most users complete their return in under an hour. Live chat and phone support are available. The MyFreeTaxes portal is now open.

“Tax season doesn’t have to be overwhelming,” said Kristie Costa, VITA Program Manager for United Way of the Plains. “Our Free Tax Filing Services program meets people where they are, whether they need in-person help or virtual support to remove barriers and help them keep more of their hard-earned money. Every return we prepare helps neighbors access the credits they’ve earned and take an important step toward greater financial security.”

Tax Season Kickoff

Opening day is Saturday, Jan. 31. Schedule your appointment at unitedwayplains.org/taxservices or call 2-1-1 to book an appointment by phone.

What: Tax Season Kickoff

When: Saturday, Jan. 31, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Where: 939 S. Glendale St., Wichita, KS 67218 Located on the back side of Parklane, near the large flagpole. By appointment only.

###

MEDIA CONTACT: Stacy Ward Lattin, Manager of Public Outreach and Community Engagement, (316) 267-1321, ext. 4224, swardlattin@unitedwayplains.org

United Way of the Plains is a nonprofit and for-impact organization that focuses on health, education, financial stability and basic needs – the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. Our mission is to improve lives by harnessing the caring power of our community to advance the common good in south central Kansas. Follow us on these social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok.