State Treasurer Calls on Michiganders to Volunteer with Their Local Free Tax Prep Program

More Than 90,000 Households Claimed $153.8 Million in Refunds Through Volunteer Tax Programs in 2026

LANSING, Mich. – State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks today encouraged Michigan residents to make a difference this upcoming tax season by volunteering with free tax preparation programs such as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide.

These providers offer no-cost, high-quality tax preparation services to low- and moderate-income households, seniors, individuals with disabilities and those who speak English as a second language. Each year, thousands of Michiganders rely on these services to file their returns, claim important tax credits and keep more of their hard-earned money.

“Free tax prep services are more vital than ever to help families navigate today's tight household budgets,” said State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. “Getting every dollar back into the pockets of working families and seniors makes a difference in affording daily essentials. By volunteering, you can play a direct role in helping your neighbors and communities while gaining valuable skills yourself.”

During the 2026 filing season, free tax preparation providers have helped more than 90,000 Michigan households save approximately $28.5 million in tax preparation fees and claim more than $153.8 million in state and federal refunds, according to the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM).

Demand for services continues to grow faster than the number of available volunteers.

Why Volunteer? Grow Your Skills, Connect, and Make a Difference

Volunteering with a free tax prep program offers benefits that extend far beyond the tax season:

• Build Your Skillset & Professional Development: Gain practical, specialized experience in financial capability, customer service and problem-solving while being backed by free IRS certification. It’s a standout addition to any resume, whether you’re launching a career, exploring finance or expanding your professional toolset.
• Connect with Your Community: Serve alongside neighbors, students, retirees and local professionals. It’s an easy way to build your network while forging meaningful local connections.
• Make a Real Difference for Your Neighbors: For many working families, a tax refund is a boost to their income. Your time directly puts dollars back into your community, helping neighbors afford daily necessities, pay down debt or build savings.

Volunteers are community members trained to help their neighbors file their taxes for free and claim every tax credit available to them. Their service directly aids individuals and families in building financial stability, managing unexpected challenges, and improving overall economic well-being.

“Free tax preparation programs rely entirely on the generosity and dedication of everyday people,” said Ben Dowd, acting executive director at CEDAM. “And importantly, you don't need any prior background in finance or taxes to make an impact. Free training and certification are provided, and there are flexible roles so anyone can get involved. Fluent in a language other than English? That’s a key way you can help out.”

Given that no prior tax experience is required, volunteers come from all walks of life: working professionals, retirees, college and high school students, and people who simply want to contribute to their community.

CEDAM manages MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org, where individuals seeking assistance can find free local services and prospective volunteers can sign up through the Volunteer Interest Form. After they’re connected with a local organization, volunteers receive comprehensive training before beginning at a convenient location in their community.

Training options are offered both online and in person, and most sites operate evenings and weekends to accommodate volunteers’ schedules.

“It’s really about the people that you’re helping and being able to use your skills,” said Will Walker, a Ford employee who has volunteered with the VITA program at Accounting Aid Society for nearly two decades. “For many Americans, a tax refund isn’t just a ‘bonus’; it’s a lifeline. The individuals we see depend on their tax returns to get by... being able to tell a client they are receiving a significant refund is a highlight of the work. They often walk in unsure and walk out shocked, with a big smile on their face.”

For more than 50 years, VITA and similar programs have provided free, reliable tax return preparation to qualified individuals. While the IRS oversees the programs, local sites are staffed and operated by volunteers who want to make a lasting impact in their communities.

Ready to make a difference?

Visit MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org/Volunteer to sign up and start your journey as a tax prep volunteer today.