tax volunteer helping man file taxes

Free Tax Help Available Across Chicagoland and Illinois as Ladder Up Opens 2026 Tax Season Sites

ByRachel Talen

We File Taxes. We Change Lives.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Rachel Talen, Change for Balance
[email protected]

CHICAGO — February 4, 2026 — As tax season gets underway, Ladder Up, a Chicago-based nonprofit, is offering free, in-person tax preparation services at multiple locations across the city and suburbs to help eligible residents file their taxes and claim the refunds and credits they’ve earned.

Each year, thousands of Chicagoland and Illinois residents qualify for free tax assistance but are unaware it exists. Ladder Up’s IRS-certified volunteers help individuals and families file accurate tax returns at no cost, often resulting in refunds that support housing stability, food security, and long-term financial health. Ladder Up can help if you are a resident of Illinois or Indiana AND meet the following requirements:

  • Your household earns less than $40,000 per year
  • You’re an individual earning less than $40,000 per year
  • You’re a full-year resident of Illinois
  • You’re a full-year resident of Indiana (Indiana locations only)

Check if you meet the requirements and learn more about Ladder Up’s services and locations by visiting https://www.ladderup.org/our-services/tax-assistance.

“For many of the families we serve, tax time can feel overwhelming,” said Gretchen Groenewold, Chief Operating Officer of Ladder Up. “Free, trusted tax help can make the process easier and ensure people don’t leave money on the table. A refund can be life-changing.”

During the 2026 tax season, Ladder Up is operating multiple free tax preparation sites throughout Chicago and the suburbs, hosted at trusted community spaces such as libraries, schools, and neighborhood organizations. A full list of locations, hours, and appointment details is available at: https://www.ladderup.org/locations/.

Ladder Up’s free tax assistance is available to Chicago and Illinois residents who meet income and eligibility guidelines. Services include help with:

  • Federal and state tax returns
  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Other eligible credits and deductions

Ladder Up’s services are designed to ensure people receive every dollar they’ve earned, while providing a respectful, judgment-free experience. The organization prioritizes access for working families, seniors, and individuals who may not be able to afford professional tax preparation.

With tax season now underway, Ladder Up encourages Chicagoans to learn whether they qualify for assistance and to schedule an appointment as soon as possible, as availability can fill up quickly.

About Ladder Up

Since 1994, Ladder Up has helped families and individuals take control of their finances, from filing taxes and securing refunds to unlocking college aid and building long-term economic stability. Through free tax preparation, financial education, and access to critical resources, Ladder Up ensures people receive every dollar they’ve earned.

To date, Ladder Up has trained more than 35,000 volunteers, supported over 922,000 people, and returned $1.85 billion in tax refunds and financial aid to communities in need. With a 2,900% return on investment, every donated dollar creates a lasting impact, helping families stay in their homes, students pursue higher education, and communities grow stronger across Chicago and beyond.

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