Nonprofit Received Funding for AI Tax Tool Expansion

The grant will allow the group to automate document screening to help speed up tax filing for thousands of Americans.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Taxes

Isometric editorial illustration of geometric file folders and digital data blocks representing streamlined tax document processing. — Code for America received a $30 million grant from Google.org to expand AI tools that automate taxpayer document screening. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Code for America has been selected as one of 15 organizations to receive a portion of a $30 million grant from the Google.org Impact Challenge. The funding will support the expansion of an AI-powered tool designed to streamline document reviews for the GetYourRefund tax filing service.

Why it matters

By automating the routine screening of taxpayer-uploaded documents, the organization aims to reduce the time volunteer preparers spend on administrative tasks. This shift seeks to lower barriers for households accessing tax benefits and essential safety net programs.

Since its launch in 2020, the GetYourRefund service has helped over 387,000 Americans claim nearly $657 million in total tax refunds. The organization is now scaling its AI capabilities to serve more households after receiving funding from the Google.org Impact Challenge.

The players

Code for America

A national nonprofit organization that builds digital tools to help households access tax filing services and public benefits.

Google.org

The philanthropic arm of the technology company that provides grants and resources to support social impact initiatives.

The details

The new AI tool functions by reviewing documents uploaded by taxpayers and automatically flagging them for either immediate preparation or further human review. By hiring tech experts and upgrading existing system infrastructure, the organization intends to reduce the administrative burden currently placed on volunteer tax preparers. This effort builds on prior experience testing the Simple File platform in partnership with states including Colorado and New Jersey.

2020: GetYourRefund service launched.
2025: Nonprofit published a report on state AI capabilities.
July 2026: Code for America partnered with Colorado and New Jersey.

Money Landscape

This project reflects a broader trend of integrating artificial intelligence into government benefit systems to improve administrative efficiency. It marks a shift in how tax services are delivered, particularly following the discontinuation of the federal Direct File service last year.

Households using the GetYourRefund service may experience faster processing times for their tax filings as the AI tool reduces manual screening bottlenecks. If you are preparing for future tax seasons, speak with a tax professional to ensure you have all documentation organized and ready for upload.

The takeaway

The use of AI in tax preparation is intended to simplify document processing and shorten wait times for taxpayers. Households should monitor updates from their preferred filing services to see if new automated features are available to assist with their next tax return.