Ladder Up

Since 1994, Ladder Up has been committed to helping hardworking families and students access the financial resources they need to move up the economic ladder. Whether it's helping clients get the tax refunds they deserve, secure the financial aid that makes higher education affordable, or develop positive financial behaviors, Ladder Up provides families and students with the tools they need to climb up and out of poverty.

The organization offers three free programs to eligible Chicago area clients:

 Tax Assistance Program (TAP): By training and deploying 1,000+ volunteers, Ladder Up offers free tax return preparation at more than 25 tax sites

Financial Capability:

• Financial aid: Ladder Up helps low-income, minority, and first-generation students access financial aid for higher education
• Financial education: Ladder Up provides one-on-one financial coaching to individuals and on-site financial education workshops for partner organizations

Tax Clinic: Ladder Up offers free legal representation to low-income taxpayers facing tax controversies