CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- Tax season is right around the corner and filing taxes shouldn't be a hassle. The Cville Tax Aid Coalition is here to help.

Madison House, an independent volunteer center for University of Virginia students, has teamed up with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville and the UVA Community Credit Union to help taxpayers with more service options by offering free tax prep for residents.

Through the Cville Tax Aid Coalition, people who earn less than $62,000 a year can save more money on tax preparation fees and claim their tax credits.

According to the IRS, more than 20 percent of taxpayers do not claim all of the credits for which they are eligible, which means they lose money.

Still, tax refunds won't be as large this year compared to years past.

"You know, with all the changes during COVID, there was a lot of relief, and that's something that is unfortunately not there anymore. Even though people are still sort of struggling though with inflation. But you know, having someone helping you with your taxes is probably a better way to make sure that you get what you are entitled to,” said Anna Byfield, director of operations with Madison House.

This year is the first time that Madison House is leading the coalition, which used to be part of the United Way of Greater Charlottesville. It offers 24/7 online self-service, drop-off service, and in-person assistance starting this month.

Madison House has 190 volunteer tax-preparers. As a whole, the coalition handles roughly 2,000 returns a year, making it one of the largest such programs in the state.

Byfield also says that as soon as people receive their W-2 and other documents, they call and set up an appointment with Cville Tax Aid Coalition. With fraud being a big concern, this helps provide more security when filing taxes this year.

For more information on how to file taxes or what tax preparation services the Cville Tax Aid Coalition provides, visit the Madison House website, send an email to [email protected] or call (434) 397-9762.