Code for America wins Google.org grant to scale AI tax tool
What's the deal? Code for America has secured a grant from Google.orgDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, the tech company's philanthropic arm, to expand an AI tool that helps volunteers process tax documents for low-income families. The civic tech nonprofit is one of 15 organisations selected for the $30 million Google.org Impact Challenge: AI for Government Innovation.
What's the endgame? The money will fund an AI-powered document screening tool for GetYourRefundDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, Code for America's virtual tax-filing service. The tool will review taxpayer-uploaded documents and flag cases that can move to preparation or need further review.
The aim is to free volunteer preparers from routine screening so they can handle complicated tax questions.
Launched in 2020 with IRS support and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance partners, GetYourRefund has helped more than 387,000 Americans file taxes and claim nearly $657 million in refunds, according to Code for America.
Why now? Code for America has expanded its use of AI in government services in recent months. It used AI to make government documents more accessible and partnered with Anthropic on tools to help SNAP caseworkers navigate eligibility rules.
In July, it partnered with Colorado and New Jersey to test a new online filing platform called Simple File. That followed the federal government's discontinuation of Direct File, a free service that let eligible taxpayers file federal income taxes directly with the IRS; the Trump administration cancelled it last year.
"We believe in AI that makes people's lives better. This initiative is an opportunity to demonstrate the true measure of this technology," said Amanda Renteria, chief executive officer of Code for America. For families served by GetYourRefund, she added, that means "an easier path to filing their taxes, claiming the benefits they have earned, and building greater financial security."
The signal: Government interest in AI runs well ahead of adoption. A 2025 report from the nonprofit found only three states — New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Utah — have made major strides in building AI capabilities, leaving room for civic tech groups to fill the gap.
Read more: statescoop.com
Image credit: Code for America Accelerator & Incubator
