Tax Preparation Assistance

Background:

United Way of Steele County began assisting the community in their income tax returns starting with the 2020 Income Tax season after the Covid-19 pandemic ended services within Steele County. As of the 2023 Income Tax season, United Way of Steele County is now a VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) site; and receives federal grant funding to support this work.  The VITA grant program is an IRS initiative designed to support free tax preparation service for the underserved.

Our Impact:

Last year, our Volunteer Income Tax Team completed over 700 returns and allowed these households to keep a total of over $1,000,000! (filing fees saved + refunds received)

How Do I Qualify:

We provide tax preparation assistance for all households that earned less than $89,000 in 2025. You need not reside in Steele County. Please note that from February 1-April 15 current tax year returns will take priority. Anybody seeking to have prior year returns completed should contact us after the deadline if possible.

Tax Services We Provide:

• Federal (Individual) Income Taxes
• MN State (Individual) Income Taxes
• MN Property Tax (Homestead Credit) Refund 
  • For MN Homeowners - 2025 Household total income less than $139,320
• MN Renter's Property Tax Refund
  • For MN Renters - 2025 Household total income less than $75,390
  • RENTERS: Minnesota has updated the filing process starting with 2024. You will not need to file an M1PR meaning your credit will not be separate from your income tax refund or amount owed going forward. Click here for more information.

Appointment Options:

• In person: By appointment only. We typically schedule 1 hour per tax year filed. Simple filings may not take a full hour. Please complete the below webform or call our office at 507-455-1180 to get set up. We will get you registered over the phone and then follow up as soon as we're able to schedule your appointment.
• Drop Off: We have a total of 3 drop off sites to better assist our friends and community members in neighboring cities & counties! (IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be prepared to present your photo ID and spend approximately 10-15 minutes with staff to complete intake process before leaving your documentation with us.)
  • FREEBORN: Workforce Development, Inc. - 2200 Riverland Dr, Albert Lea MN 56007
    • Site only available for drop offs February 15-April 15
  • RICE: Buckham West - 19 Division St W, Faribault MN 55021
    • Site only available for drop offs February 15-April 15
  • STEELE: United Way of Steele County - 245 SE 18th St, Suite 1, Owatonna MN 55060

Please only complete the below webform if you are seeking an in-person appointment. You will be contacted once we're ready to get you scheduled. The below form is not necessary for drop offs; however, you will be asked to complete an intake and sign a drop off certification form when dropping off taxes, for your security.