Business & Tech

Free Tax Prep In Bloomfield: United Way Expands Services In 2025

Eligible Bloomfield residents can save up to $248 by having their taxes done for free – here's how.

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Eligible Bloomfield residents could save up to $248 by having their taxes done for free through a local program organizers say – and it could be just the tip of the iceberg.

The United Way of Greater Newark recently announced the opening of a new Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site at the Bloomfield Public Library. Opening just in time for tax season, the new site will help Bloomfield residents earning $80,000 or less in taxable income to navigate the tax filing process and file for free, saving them up to $248.

The VITA program also helps eligible taxpayers claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other valuable tax credits, which can total over $6,000.

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Services are offered in English and Spanish. Tax returns are prepared by trained and certified volunteers.

According to the nonprofit, it expects to complete up to 200 tax filings this year at the Bloomfield location. Based on tax refunds from the previous year, the organization predicts it will be able to secure roughly $250,000 to $350,000 in tax refunds and an additional $35,000 to $45,000 in avoided tax fees for Bloomfield residents through this program.

Find out what's happening in Bloomfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Bloomfield Mayor Jenny Mundell gave the United Way a hearty welcome to town.

"This initiative is a testament to our shared commitment to ensuring all residents have the resources they need to thrive," Mundell said. "By offering free tax preparation services, we’re helping families keep more of their hard-earned money, which is vital for their financial stability and well-being."

Bloomfield Public Library Director Holly Belli also said the expansion will boost local residents.

"This partnership with United Way of Greater Newark to provide free, professional tax preparation assistance can make a real difference to community members who may be struggling to make ends meet," Belli said.

VITA is an IRS-sponsored service and part of the Newark Free Tax Prep, an initiative under the Newark Asset Building Coalition (NABC).

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