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Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

Are You recently retired, a student or just want to help the people in your community? VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) is a program that provides free tax preparation to benefit low income, elderly, and disabled families living in the Mesa community. Volunteers prepare basic tax returns at conveniently located community and neighborhood locations. Returns are filed electronically resulting in a fast refund. Read on for all of the volunteer opportunities that exist within the program. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Training Schedule, Important Dates & Site Information

VITA Volunteer Interest Form

Tax Preparer

Description
Prepare the basic 1040 tax returns and related schedules, Know the eligibility rules for claiming EITC and CTC (Child Tax Credit), Answer tax related questions, Interview taxpayer to determine if all income, deductions and allowable credits are claimed, Complete and submit required statistical reports in a timely manner.

Experience
The only experience needed is the spirit of volunteerism! The IRS provides free training and materials. Basic Computer knowledge a definite plus!

Hours
Participants can volunteer at the site of their choice and select a time that best fits their schedule. Evening and weekend hours are available.

Training
New volunteers: 20 classroom hours
Returning volunteers: 10 hours self-study
Testing Days have been added this year for those who wish to take the test in the presence of an instructor. Read detailed training schedule
Must attend all volunteer orientation on January 26. 
VITA Volunteer Interest Form

Site Coordinator

Description
Help establish a quality review process for the site. Ensure that all volunteer tax preparers are aware of the review procedures. Provide feedback to volunteer tax preparers regarding tax prep errors and adherence to site quality procedures. Develop and maintain volunteers schedule. Perform administrative duties: maintain database, print Tax Wise reports, track volunteer hours, report equipment and supply needs to site sponsor, reconcile forms.

Experience
Previous VITA volunteer experience needed.

Hours
Participants can volunteer at the site of their choice and select a time that best fits their schedule. Evening and weekend hours are available.

Training
Returning volunteers only
Training coordinated by the IRS
Contact Katie for more info
VITA Volunteer Interest Form

Greeter/Screener

Description
Develop a log or checklist to sign in taxpayers needing assistance and determine type of return that needs to be completed Greet all taxpayers visiting the site to create a pleasant atmosphere Perform screening process of all taxpayers, Survey taxpayers to determine the type of assistance they will need. Ensure that taxpayer has brought the necessary information (e.g. W-2, 1099's last year's return) from which a tax return can be completed. Monitor site traffic to ensure that sufficient time is allowed for all taxpayers being checked in to receive assistance.

Experience
The only experience needed is the spirit of volunteerism! The IRS provides free training and materials. Basic Computer knowledge a definite plus!

Hours
Participants can volunteer at the site of their choice and select a time that best fits their schedule. Evening and weekend hours are available.

Training
Must attend all volunteer orientation on January 26.
Read detailed training schedule
VITA Volunteer Interest Form

Interpreter

Description
Half of the clients we will serve speak English as a second language.

Experience
Bi-lingual in English & any other language.

Hours
Participants can volunteer at the site of their choice and select a time that best fits their schedule. Evening and weekend hours are available.

Training
Must attend all volunteer orientation on January 26. 
Read detailed training schedule
VITA Volunteer Interest Form