Lake Charles, LA – United Way Southwest Louisiana announced the launch of its free tax filing service, My Free Taxes, for the upcoming tax season, offering a stress-free solution for individuals earning less than $84,000 in 2024. The program provides a simple, online platform for U.S. tax filers to file both federal and state taxes at no cost.
Denise Durel, President & CEO of United Way Southwest Louisiana, emphasized the importance of reducing the stress and confusion that often accompanies tax season. “Taxes can be a source of confusion and stress for all of us,” Durel said. “With My Free Taxes, people have an easy, free option that will get them all their tax credits and deductions – with tax guides and IRS-trained phone support.”
Since its inception in 2020, the My Free Taxes program has already helped nearly 24,000 people in Southwest Louisiana, saving them a total of over $3 million in tax preparation fees. Participants have also been able to claim important credits and deductions, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit, potentially increasing their refunds.
The service is designed to be user-friendly and accessible. Most filers are able to complete their taxes in under one hour. Whether using a phone, tablet, or computer, the platform provides step-by-step guidance to ensure users receive their maximum refund. In addition to the online filing tool, filers have access to support from IRS-trained specialists who can assist with any questions in both English and Spanish.
For those who need assistance, the My Free Taxes help line is available daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET through April 15, 2025. After that date, the support hours will shift to Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, through October 15, 2025. The help line, which is supported by 211 call specialists, connects filers to experts trained to address a wide range of tax questions and concerns.
The program covers a variety of tax situations, including:
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W-2 income
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Schedule C Self-Employment
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Unemployment income
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Education expenses and student loan interest
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Earned Income Tax Credit
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Child Tax Credit
Additionally, My Free Taxes offers a special tool for managing student debt, helping employees lower payments or find loan forgiveness options. Small business owners, gig economy workers, and individuals impacted by federally declared disasters will also find helpful resources and guides on the platform.
“My Free Taxes is designed to eliminate barriers that prevent people from filing their taxes accurately and on time,” Durel explained. “The software uses best-in-class security standards to protect taxpayer information and is updated regularly with the latest tax law changes, ensuring that returns are accurate and filers receive all eligible credits.”
The My Free Taxes service is provided in collaboration with the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which helps qualified filers prepare their tax returns for free. To access the service or make an appointment with a VITA volunteer, individuals can visit unitedwayswla.org/vita or dial 211.
United Way Southwest Louisiana’s My Free Taxes program is one of many community-focused initiatives designed to help residents navigate financial challenges and secure the support they need. By offering a free and efficient way to file taxes, the program aims to reduce financial burdens and ensure that taxpayers get the refunds and credits they deserve.