The United Way of King County has offered a countywide free tax preparation campaign since 2003, including a station in White Center, to help anyone who makes under $51,000 get their taxes done right with the maximum return.

The campaign will run from Jan. 15 to April 15 at the Providence Joseph House in White Center at 11215 5th Ave S.W.

Countywide, United Way writes their free tax preparation volunteers helped 14,0000 people obtain $20.7 million in refunds in 2012. In White Center and North Highline there are an estimated 17,000 families eligible for free service. In 2012, 1,000 North Highliners took advantage.

Mary Weir with United Way said they are still looking for volunteers to help with White Center shifts. Here are details:

- Volunteers commit to one four-hour shift per week throughout the Jan. 15 to April 15 tax season.

- Volunteers are required to complete a two-day training on tax law and TaxWise software (training is done at the South Seattle Community College).

- For volunteers not interested in helping out with taxes, United Way also needs a hand with customer intake, signing up families for public benefits and interpretation services.

- To volunteer, email EITC@uwkc.org, call 1-800-621-4636, or visit www.uwkc.org/taxvolunteer on the web.

Weir said many people who are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit do not claim it, and many others use paid tax return services.