Volunteers Help Return Millions to Local Families Through The Alameda County Social Services Agency’s (ACSSA’s) Free Tax Prep Program

Since 2002, the Alameda County Social Services Agency (ACSSA) has partnered with the United Way Bay Area’s Free Tax Help Program to deliver no-cost tax preparation services to low- to moderate-income families and individuals through Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites located throughout the County.

ACSSA’s VITA program plays a vital role in promoting financial stability and equity, ensuring that underserved communities receive their full benefits without costs or exploitation. It also cultivates a strong community of service-minded individuals, offering volunteers meaningful personal growth, new connections, and the rewarding experience of making a real difference in people’s lives.

In 2025, across five (5) different sites located in Alameda County, 83 volunteers (of which 42 were County employees and 3 high school students) successfully processed over 2000 tax returns ( 16% growth from the 2024 filing season). These returns resulted in over $3 million in combined federal and state refunds issued to taxpayers. Of this, over $1 million was claimed through the Child Tax Credits, and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) accounted for an additional 1 million dollars in credits.

EITC is one of the largest federal anti-poverty programs and typically the single most effective program targeted at reducing poverty for working-age households.

Seventy-five percent of filed returns had an adjusted gross income (AGI) below $67,000, highlighting the program’s focus on supporting low- to moderate-income individuals and families. Notably, 390 returns included a primary or secondary taxpayer aged 60 or older, demonstrating the program’s reach across diverse age groups.

For many clients, this program offers financial empowerment, and a tax refund is their largest financial transaction of the year—it can mean rent, groceries, or medical care.

If you would like to become an IRS-certified tax preparer volunteer, we would gladly welcome you to our team. All tax preparation volunteers receive free IRS-certified tax training. This is an excellent opportunity to expand your skills and assist low-income families and individuals in getting the tax credits they deserve. For volunteer information, contact The Alameda County Social Services Agency at (510) 271-9100.

By Pamela Powell, Natalie Tibbs, and Marissa Hollenback