Code for America Wins Google Grant for AI Tax Document Screening

Code for America has secured funding from Google.org to deploy artificial intelligence that will automate document screening for low-income taxpayers using its GetYourRefund service.

The civic tech nonprofit is among 15 organizations receiving grants through Google.org's $30 million Impact Challenge: AI for Government Innovation. The funding will support an AI tool that reviews documents uploaded by taxpayers and determines whether cases can proceed to tax preparation or need additional review.

GetYourRefund, launched in 2020 with IRS support and partnerships with Volunteer Income Tax Assistance organizations, has served more than 387,000 Americans and helped them claim nearly $657 million in refunds, according to Code for America. The new AI screening capability aims to free volunteer tax preparers from routine document checks so they can focus on complex tax questions.

Why it matters

Administrative friction in accessing tax benefits and safety net programs leaves money on the table for eligible families. Automating document screening could help scale volunteer tax assistance programs that struggle with capacity constraints, potentially expanding access to refunds and credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit. The project also demonstrates how AI can augment—rather than replace—human expertise in government services.

Expanding AI use in civic services

The tax document project represents Code for America's latest AI deployment in government programs. The organization has recently used AI to improve government document accessibility and partnered with Anthropic to build tools that help SNAP caseworkers navigate eligibility rules.

"We believe in AI that makes people's lives better," Amanda Renteria, CEO of Code for America, said in a statement. "For the families we serve through GetYourRefund, that means an easier path to filing their taxes, claiming the benefits they have earned, and building greater financial security."

The nonprofit has positioned tax benefits and safety net programs as areas where technology can reduce administrative burdens that prevent eligible people from accessing services.

State AI adoption remains early stage

Code for America's work comes as most states remain in early phases of AI adoption. A 2025 report from the organization found only three states—New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Utah—have made significant progress building AI capabilities through hiring tech experts, training workers, and upgrading legacy systems. The remaining 47 states are still experimenting with pilot programs or relying on external partnerships with universities and technology companies.

In July, Code for America partnered with Colorado and New Jersey to test Simple File, a new online tax filing platform developed after the Trump administration canceled the IRS Direct File program. Several states had begun integrating the federal system into their digital tax services before it was discontinued.

The details were first reported by StateScoop.