Free Online Tax Prep

NOTE: The online portal is now closed for NEW FILINGS. This will allow us to finish returns already submitted by the April 15 deadline. If you have a filing that is incomplete, you can still access it to finish it. However, we can not guarantee that we will be able to process your return before the April 15 deadline. But we will do our best!

The portal will reopen on May 1, 2025 and will remain open until October.

If you cannot wait until May, we can provide you with free filing options to complete on your own return by April 15. To learn more about these self-filing options, email [email protected] or leave a message in English or Spanish at 973.993.1160, x5 and a tax specialist will return your call.

Current users can still access their accounts using the Get Started link below.

Welcome to United Way of Northern New Jersey’s secure online tax filing portal. This free tax preparation service is open to low- and moderate-income households earning $84,000 and under. This service is available to individuals and families only. Businesses and landlords are not eligible.

Versión en Español

Through a program known as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or VITA, United Way partners with the IRS, Norwescap, and Greater Providence Missionary Baptist Church to provide this free service.

Getting Started

You will need scanned/digitized copies of the following documents:

  • Valid government-issued photo ID for yourself (and spouse, if filing jointly);
  • Valid Social Security card or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for all individuals on the return;
  • Tax documents showing income such as all W2s and form 1099s;
  • If self-employed, income-related documents such as checks, form 1099NEC, and form 1099K and proof of related expenses;
  • Proof of expenses such as child and dependent care, student loans, educational, medical and educator expenses, mortgage interest, property taxes;
  • If applicable, form 1095A (NJ Get Covered) and 1099SA (health savings accounts);
  • A copy of last year’s tax return if not prepared by our program

Please note: Other documents/information may be necessary based on individual situations. For example, if you are receiving a refund, you will need to supply bank routing and account numbers or a copy of a check.

Using a computer or smartphone, upload required documents to our portal. IRS tax law-certified preparers will reach out via video chat or phone if they have questions, need anything additional, or to review, finalize, and electronically file the return. Tax returns are completed within 7-10 days once all necessary documents and information have been received.

Get Started! ⇒

Need help?

Check out our FAQs. If you still need assistance, send an email to United Way Tax Prep or leave a message at 973.993.1160, x5 and a tax specialist will return your call.

Other Ways to File

In addition to our online portal, households earning $84,000 and under can also:

  • Make an appointment. We offer in-person and limited drop-off appointments. Text FreeTaxNJ to 51555 or click here to get started.
  • Prepare your own. Send an email to United Way Tax Prep to get access to our self-filing software.
  • Mail in your tax documents. Click here to start that process.

For households earning more than $84,000, Direct File, a free IRS federal tax filing program, may be an option. To learn more, including eligibility requirements, click here.