Written by Liz Foreman, Brand Coordinator, Downtown Main Library
For the fifth consecutive year, the Library has partnered with the United Way of Greater Cincinnati and AARP to provide free tax preparation to people in need.
The totals are in! In 2025, 1,259 individuals and families were served, saving a whopping $346,225 in filing fees and claiming an amazing $1,147,783 in refunds. This marks a 7% increase in the number of taxpayers served at the Library compared with the previous tax season.
Tax Help at 7 Library Locations
Free tax help was held at seven Library locations in 2025: the Downtown Main Library, Groesbeck Branch, Harrison Branch, Madisonville Branch, North Central Branch, Price Hill Branch, and Reading Branch. This is the fourth year for tax help at the Library.
United Way provided tax help at five Cincinnati & Hamilton Public Library (CHPL) branches, while AARP offered tax help at two additional branches. United Way also handled appointments and data services for all seven locations.
More than 400 tax volunteers helped deliver this essential service, while the Library contributed space, greeted clients, and conducted intake services. Assisting the tax preparers allowed them to focus more time on completing tax returns.
"This incredible outcome would not have been possible without the support and dedication of the United Way. The Library is also grateful to tax prep volunteers from AARP, AmeriCorps NCCC, Ernst & Young, GE Aviation, and Kroger," said CHPL's Public Services Director Kathy Bach.
Missed Tax Day? Check Out Summer Tax Help
Though the 2025 tax season has ended, the United Way of Greater Cincinnati’s Free Tax Prep initiative continues this summer at other locations in Greater Cincinnati. Learn more about this service and locations on the United Way's Free Tax Prep website, opens a new window.
Access Government Resources at the Library
All of the Library's 41 locations help connect you with information and resources for your city, county, state, and federal governments. Learn about passport acceptance, housing resources, and more on CHPL's Government Resources page.
Need to print out tax forms or other important documents? Use the Library's computers and free printing anytime.
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