Dane County Executive Agard Highlights Free Help for Tax Preparation

February 16, 2026
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-228-7224
County Executive

MADISON, WI – Today, Dane County Executive Melissa Agard visited the Richard Dilley Tax Center to celebrate 25 years of providing the free tax preparation assistance available to Dane County residents. The Center, located at the UW South Madison Partnership at 2238 S. Park Street, Madison, WI 53713, is open until April 14.

 

The Richard Dilley Tax Center is a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program that specifically seeks to serve individuals, families, seniors, and people with disabilities. All appointments are in-person with a certified, volunteer tax preparer who will prepare residents’ returns in their presence. The Center helps residents address any confusion they may have as they prepare to file their taxes and electronically file their tax returns for free.

 

“Tax season can be stressful, especially for those who aren’t sure where to turn for help,” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. “The Richard Dilley Tax Center provides a critical service to ensure residents can file their taxes accurately and claim the credits they are entitled to. These refunds can make a real difference for working families and individuals across Dane County.”

 

During the 2025 tax year, 3,161 returns were prepared free of charge, resulting in over $4.8 million in refunds to taxpayers.

 

The more than 85 volunteers serving as site captains, greeters, and tax preparers are key to the success of the Center. Dane County UW Extension has been involved in the free tax preparation initiative since 2005. Other primary partners include the UW Madison South Partnership Office, Wisconsin Department of Revenue, and the Internal Revenue Service. The Center is funded in part by an IRS VITA grant.

 

The Richard Dilley Tax Center is open Mondays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Fridays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The fastest, most efficient way to make an appointment is online 24 hours a day, 7 days per week at: https://dane.extension.wisc.edu/finances/rdtc/.

 

Those unable to register online may call 608-283-1261 to book an appointment. Phones are answered Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays.

 

Please visit the Richard Dilley Tax Center website for more information on eligibility requirements, to access printable brochures, and to review what is required to bring to your appointment, including social security cards/ITINS.