Our VITA Volunteers Reduce the Financial Burden and Stress of Filing Tax Returns
While Helping Bring Millions of Dollars Back to the Community
What is the Need?
People can be intimidated about filing their tax returns correctly. Some of the most common tax credits are often overlooked, and paying hundreds of dollars for tax preparation services can put even more stress on those who may already be struggling financially.
Together we can change that. With the support of VITA Volunteers people can be assured that their taxes are filed correctly – including claiming all the deductions, tax credits, and refunds for which they qualify – putting more money in their pockets and strengthening their self-sufficiency.
What is VITA?
VITA is Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. The VITA program at Community Action Agency provides no-cost tax return preparation services for low to moderate income households in Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdale counties.
VITA Volunteers Can Help
The VITA program depends almost exclusively on volunteers – it’s right there in the name! If you can give 3 – 6 hours a week during the tax season (January – April), there’s a place for you as a VITA Volunteer.
We know tax returns can feel intimidating. That’s why our VITA volunteers work as a team and every tax return is reviewed by a seasoned volunteer to help ensure accuracy. No experience is necessary, and we provide all the training and support you need to be successful!
Click HERE or click the button below to let us know you’re interested!
VITA Volunteer Roles
The VITA program depends almost exclusively on volunteers – it’s right there in the name! You can help your friends and neighbors in the community by serving as a Tax Readiness Navigator or Tax Preparer.
A VITA Tax Readiness Navigator . . .
- is social and enjoys interacting with the public
- will greet people at our tax preparation sites
- will help fill out registration forms and make sure people bring all documents needed to prepare tax returns
Click HERE or click the button below learn more about the role of a VITA Tax Readiness Navigator.
“I like helping people and talking to people that may live alone and have no one else to talk to.”
A VITA Tax Preparer . . .
- is comfortable with numbers and data entry
- is detail-oriented and is comfortable using a computer
- does not need to be a tax professional to be successful in this role (All training provided.)
Click HERE or click the button below to learn more about the role of a VITA Tax Preparer.
“Preparing taxes for others may seem intimidating, but training and coaching are provided to develop your skill and build confidence.”
Last year VITA Volunteers helped bring almost $4M in Federal and State tax refunds and credits to the people and communities we serve.
Are you ready to get started? Do you just want to learn more? Click HERE or click the button below to fill out our interest form and we’ll be in touch with you within two (2) business days. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is The Time Commitment?
After our volunteers are fully trained, we ask for a minimum time commitment of 3 – 6 hours per week during the tax return season (early February through April 15th.) You may volunteer as your schedule allows.
With our 6 tax preparation sites located in Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdale counties – along with the option to volunteer virtually – there are opportunities available 24/7. In-person volunteer opportunities are primarily during the daytime, with some evening and Saturday hours available.
Is this a year-round commitment?
No. Training begins in January, and then we process tax returns from February through approximately April 15th.
Will I receive training?
Yes. The IRS provides free training. Training typically begins in January. There is the option for self-paced online training, and we also offer classes that can be attended either in-person or via Zoom.
Do I have to take a test to prepare taxes?
Yes. To become a tax preparer, you will have to pass three (3) tests. However, the certification tests are “open book,” taken online, and not timed. A passing score is 80% or higher.
How complicated is the average return?
You can expect each return to take about 1 hour. Returns are relatively simple and typically consist of W2’s and Social Security income. Additionally, the VITA Program has limitations. Some returns are considered “out-of-scope” (too complicated) and will be referred to a professional tax preparer.
What if I make a mistake?
Don’t worry, every return goes through a Quality Review process with another volunteer. By having a seasoned volunteer review every return, it helps to ensure all returns are prepared correctly.
Am I liable for the tax returns I prepare?
If you’re performing the responsibilities under the Volunteer Standards of Conduct, you are protected.
The Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 protects you from liability for negligent acts performed within the scope of your responsibilities in the organization for which you volunteer.
Where will I volunteer?
VITA tax preparation sites are located in Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdale counties. There may also be virtual volunteer opportunities.
How do I get started?
Click HERE for our Volunteer Interest Form, or call or send email to Mike Fingas, VITA Volunteer Coordinator, at 517-962-8642 or [email protected].