United Way tool makes filing taxes online easier

United Way has announced recently-enhanced features to MyFreeTaxes that allow most filers to complete their taxes in under one hour.

MyFreeTaxes.com is a safe, easy and completely free way for individuals or families earning $66,000 or less to file their state and federal taxes.

For the past nine years, United Way has partnered with H&R Block to provide free tax filing services for federal and state taxes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Since that time, the partnership has helped nearly a million people file their returns, bringing more than $1 billion in refunds back to local communities.

"Tax season is a source of confusion and stress for most Americans," said Kristi Long, president and CEO of United Way of Lake County. "Many are worried they'll make a mistake, won't get their full refund or will pay too much. With MyFreeTaxes, filers can get support from IRS-certified specialists and cut down the time it takes to complete their returns."

When it comes to advanced technology and personalized customer experience, H&R Block is among the industry leaders. MyFreeTaxes users get access to H&R Block Premium Product with enhanced features to ensure filers get every dollar they deserve:

• Ability to upload an image of your W-2, allowing MyFreeTaxes to automatically fill in your information.

• Free, unlimited, personalized real-time chat and phone support in English and Spanish from IRS-certified specialists at (855) MY-TX-HELP. The helpline operates from mid-January through April 30 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays.

• Refund Reveal will show filers how and why their refund amount is changing in real time.

• Advanced functionality for those working in the gig economy or who need to include information regarding real estate investments, stock options or inheritance taxes.

Taxpayers earning less than $66,000 can enter their data through MyFreeTaxes.com, which links to a secure H&R Block website, making it easy to complete their taxes from home, at work or on mobile devices.

MyFreeTaxes is supported by United Way, and users can contact their local United Way for other local resources, or to find ways to volunteer and further support their community.

MyFreeTaxes comes with H&R Block's brand promise that consumers are guaranteed a maximum refund, 100 percent accuracy and 100 percent satisfaction.

For information about United Way of Lake County, visit www.LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org.