United Way of East Central Iowa (UWECI) and its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program have completed the 2025 Tax Season. This free tax preparation service helped 1,995 qualifying individuals and families file their tax returns this season at no cost to them.

Thanks to the dedication of trained volunteers, UWECI’s VITA program returned a combined $3,085,075 in federal and state tax refunds directly into the pockets of East Central Iowa residents. With the national average cost of professional tax preparation now at $306 per return, the 1,995 VITA clients collectively saved an estimated $610,470.

“Through our VITA program, we’re helping individuals and families keep more of the money they’ve earned while removing barriers to accessing quality tax preparation services,” said Kristin Roberts, President & CEO of UWECI. “We’re incredibly grateful to our volunteers whose expertise and dedication make this impact possible.”

2025 VITA Program Numbers

• 1,995 total tax returns

• $2,502,653 in federal tax refunds

• $582,422 in state tax refunds

• $3,085,075 in total refunds

The program’s 4,001 volunteer hours represent an extraordinary gift of time and expertise from community members who chose to serve their neighbors.

“I enjoy working directly with clients and helping them not only with their current tax return but also preparing for the future,” said Patti Jakoubek, a VITA volunteer. “Sometimes it’s helping someone understand a change that may affect next year’s taxes or providing guidance that can help them avoid surprises down the road. It’s rewarding to know you’re making a difference for someone in a very practical way.”

UWECI’s VITA program is proudly supported by Transamerica, Wells Fargo, and Jones County Board of Supervisors.