KE’YA Tax Clinic
A Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program of Mni Sota Fund
2nd and 4th Wednesdays and Thursdays at MAIC | 10:00AM - 2:00PM Appointment Only
For appointments, volunteer training, and other questions,
Email us at: vita@mnisotafund.org or call us at: 612-760-3633
Our office is located on the 2nd floor of the MAIC
1530 E Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Free. Trusted. Community centered.
KE’YA Tax Clinic is a free tax preparation program offered by Mni Sota Fund, grounded in community care and guided support. Named after the turtle, KE’YA represents protection, steadiness, and moving forward with purpose. We are here to help Native families and low to moderate income community members navigate tax season with less stress and more understanding across Mni Sota Makoce.
Our team of IRS certified volunteers provides free federal and state tax filing while honoring strict privacy and quality standards. We also take time to explain tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, so you know what you are eligible for and why it matters.
Who Qualifies for Free Tax Prep?
Individuals earning up to $47,000
Families earning up to $69,000
Elders, people with disabilities, and limited English speakers may also qualify within these income guidelines
What to Bring to Your Appointment:
Photo identification
Social Security cards for everyone on your tax return
W2 forms
Any 1099 forms
1098 T forms for education
1095 A forms for health insurance
Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
Last year’s tax return if available
Receipts for self employment or gig work expenses
Property tax or rent certificate if applying for the renter refund
For DIY filers, you will need to have your tax return from last year available, either printed or on your phone
DIY Tax Clinic
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DIY Tax Clinic *
Need help filing your taxes but want to do it yourself? Our DIY KE’YA Tax Clinic is now open at MAIC for community members who prefer a self guided option.
During the DIY clinic, you’ll create your own account through an authorized IRS tax software program and work on your return using laptops onsite. A staff member will be available in the room if questions come up along the way.
This option is especially helpful for those who want to file independently or whose income is above our standard VITA limits.
Clinic Hours
2nd and 4th Wednesdays and Thursdays | 10:00AM - 2:00PM Appointment Only
Eligibility Highlights
Income limit up to $89,000
Ability to complete Schedule C with business write offs
Support available in the room if you need guidance
For appointments, volunteer training, and other questions,
Email us at: vita@mnisotafund.org or call us at: 612-760-3633
Our office is located on the 2nd floor of the MAIC, 1530 E Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Learn About Tax Credits:
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The Minnesota Child Tax Credit (CTC) is a refundable credit equal to $1,750 per child under 18, with no limit on the number of children.
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The Minnesota Working Family Credit (WFC) is a refundable credit for working individuals whose income is below a certain level.
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The Credit for Qualifying Older Children is a refundable credit. If you have a qualifying child who is older than 17, you may be eligible for the Credit for Qualifying Older Children.
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Minnesota has two tax relief programs for families with children in kindergarten through 12th grade: the K-12 Education Subtraction, and the K-12 Education Credit. Both programs help lower taxes and may provide a larger refund.
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Minnesota has a property tax relief program for renters called the Renter’s Credit. This is a refundable credit on the income tax return that helps lower taxes and may provide a larger refund.
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Minnesota has property tax relief program for homeowners called the Homestead Credit Refund. This program can provide relief to property taxes paid.
For appointments, volunteer training, and other questions:
Email us at: vita@mnisotafund.org or call us at: 612-760-3633
Free Tax Clinic FAQs
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The KE’YA Tax Clinic supports individuals and families with simple tax situations. This includes workers, parents, students, elders, and community members who meet basic income guidelines.
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Federal and state income tax returns
Refundable tax credits
Child Tax Credit
Earned Income Tax Credit
Education and student loan credits
Basic self employment with limited expenses
Retirement income
Unemployment income
Property tax and renter refund returns
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Minneapolis
Mni Sota Fund Office,inside the Minneapolis American Indian Center
Thursdays from 4pm - 8pm
Feb 5 through April 15, 2026St Paul
Department of Indian Work (DIW)
Wednesdays from 4pm - 8pm
Starting Feb 11Appointments will be available soon! Limited walk ins may be offered depending on availability
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Photo identification
Social Security cards for everyone on your tax return
W2 forms
Any 1099 forms
1098 T forms for education
1095 A forms for health insurance
Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
Last year’s tax return if available
Receipts for self employment or gig work expenses
Property tax or rent certificate if applying for the renter refund
For DIY filers, you will need to have your tax return from last year available, either printed or on your phone
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Returns with rental property income
Returns involving depreciation or business losses
Returns with extensive investment income
Returns for people with inventory or payroll
Returns with multiple states or complex adjustments
If your situation is outside our scope, we can help refer you to additional resources.
For appointments, volunteer training, and other questions:
Email us at: vita@mnisotafund.org or call us at: 612-760-3633
Volunteer with Us!
Volunteering with KE’YA Tax Clinic means showing up for community during a season that can feel overwhelming for many families. KE’YA is Mni Sota Fund’s free tax support program, rooted in care, trust, and protection, serving Native families and low to moderate income community members across Mni Sota Makoce.
Our goal is simple. To help people keep more of what they earn while moving through tax season with dignity, understanding, and support.
This work is made possible by volunteers who believe in financial empowerment and community care. By sharing your time and skills, you help create a steady and welcoming space where families can file their taxes at no cost and feel confident knowing they are supported every step of the way.
To become a volunteer, email us at: vita@mnisotafund.org or call us at: 612-760-3633
Volunteer Opportunities
Tax Preparer
Help prepare basic federal and state tax returns using IRS VITA software. Training and IRS certification provided.
Greeter
Serve as the first friendly face for clients by welcoming them upon arrival, assisting with check in, and ensuring a smooth check out once their taxes are complete.
To become a volunteer, email us at: vita@mnisotafund.org or call us at: 612-760-3633
Volunteer FAQs
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You will prepare basic federal and state tax returns, help clients understand their refund and credit eligibility, and connect them to financial coaching if they want additional guidance.
You do not need tax experience. Volunteers receive full training and support.
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Tax Preparers
Intake and Greeter Support
Schedulers
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Resume building skills
Community service hours
Free IRS VITA certification
Snacks during your shifts
A welcoming volunteer environment
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We offer in person and online training for volunteers.
Orientation sessions are ongoing and take place at the Mni Sota Fund Offices inside the Minneapolis American Indian Center. Online orientations will also be available.
Volunteers must complete 16 to 18 hours of IRS VITA training and pass the open book IRS certification exam. -
Minneapolis
Mni Sota Fund Office,inside the Minneapolis American Indian Center
Wednesdays from 4pm - 8pm
January 21st through April 15, 2026St Paul
Department of Indian Work (DIW)
Thursdays from 4pm - 8pm
Beginning January twenty nineAppointments will be available soon! Limited walk ins may be offered depending on availability
To become a volunteer, email us at: vita@mnisotafund.org or call us at: 612-760-3633
