Why United Way Bay Area Supports Services For ITIN Taxpayers

Attempting to transform the tax system into an immigration enforcement tool is not just illegal and immoral—it’s also destructive economic policy. As an organization committed to fighting poverty, we see firsthand how attacks on immigrant communities push vulnerable families further into the shadows and deeper into poverty.

For decades, the IRS has rightfully maintained that tax information remains confidential, encouraging all residents, regardless of immigration status, to fulfill their civic and financial responsibilities. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in federal, state, and local taxes annually using Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs). These taxpayers are vital, contributing members of our communities and our economy. Many ITIN filers proudly pay taxes not only to fulfill their tax obligations but with hope that a documented history of tax compliance will support their path to legal status in the future. Exploiting this good-faith participation in our tax system violates the trust that allows this process to function.

United Way Bay Area supports the region’s largest coalition of partners providing free tax preparation services, helping tens of thousands of low- and middle-income residents file their taxes each year. We do this because we believe everyone deserves access to resources that help them advance economically, and because we know that one of the best ways to reduce poverty is to put more money back in the pocket of people working for the lowest wages. For many households, tax refunds represent the largest single payment they’ll receive all year—a critical infusion of cash that can help cover rent, reduce debt, build emergency savings, or invest in education. The tax system, when fair and accessible to all, can serve as an extremely effective anti-poverty tool.

United Way Bay Area remains committed to supporting all community members, including undocumented immigrants, in accessing the resources they need to achieve financial stability. We will continue to provide our free tax help services to all Bay Area neighbors and advocate for policies that respect the dignity and contributions of all residents. Our programs are designed to be inclusive so that all people in the region can access resources and opportunities to thrive.

While the future of data confidentiality remains uncertain, we encourage individuals to consider their own situations. What we currently know is that the IRS is generally prohibited from sharing taxpayer information (26 U.S.C. 6103), including to other federal agencies. This protection applies to all taxpayers and is a fundamental principle of the U.S. tax system. However, given the current circumstances and evolving policies and knowing the potential risks involved, only proceed with an ITIN application or tax filing if you feel comfortable.

If you need resources pertaining to filing taxes or immigration, legal or otherwise, please utilize our 211 Helpline. You can call 211 from your phone or text 211211. 211 is a service of United Way Bay Area and is a free, confidential helpline.