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Every year, the United Way Serving Howard and Tipton Counties provides free income tax preparation services. It takes a handful of volunteers three months to serve hundreds of local residents who need assistance in completing their annual tax returns.
In 2025, the Free Tax Preparation program hit a new high, completing more returns than ever before in the program’s history. According to Cheryl Graham, United Way Operations Director and VITA Tax Site Coordinator, hundreds of thousands of dollars will return to the community through the efforts of the service.
“The program was quite a success!” said Graham. “We filed 768 Federal and 848 State returns for Howard and Tipton Counties. That is the most we have filed in more than five years. We completed more returns in each county than we have ever done. Thanks to everyone who helped make the program a success!”
Graham disclosed that $895,273 was brought back into the community in tax refunds. Taxpayers saved $208,000 in tax preparation fees, and $126,000 was refunded in child tax care credit. An additional $292,000 was refunded through the Earned Income Credit.
Among those using United Way’s tax preparation services, their average gross income was $27,811, an increase from $24,000 in 2024.
“Their efforts have not only set new records but have also made a significant difference in the lives of many in our community,” said Jessica Ausbrook, chairperson of the United Way Serving Howard and Tipton Counties’ executive board of directors.
According to Indiana United Ways CEO Michael Budd, 40 percent of Indiana households qualify as Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed (ALICE). These are individuals and families who earn above the Federal Poverty Level but still struggle to afford life’s basic necessities like housing, childcare, and healthcare.
“They are our friends, our coworkers, and our family members,” said Ausbrook. “Because of them, we are united by a shared commitment to uplift those in need and create a stronger, more supportive community for everyone. Programs like Free Tax Prep are vital in providing financial relief to these hardworking families.”
For those interested in learning more about ALICE families and the challenges they encounter, Ausbrook encourages the community to visit the United For ALICE Indiana overview: https://www.unitedforalice.org/state-overview/Indiana.
For more information about the United Way Serving Howard and Tipton Counties, visit www.howardandtiptonunitedway.org.