Volunteer tax preparers sought for VITA program

Volunteer tax preparers sought for VITA program
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Individuals who participate in the 2020 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program receive training and IRS certification appropriate for their volunteer position, as well as materials for self-study on basic income-tax law for federal and state returns.

                        

United Way of Tuscarawas County is now accepting applications for volunteer tax preparers for the upcoming tax season. No experience is necessary.

Individuals who participate in the 2020 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program receive training and IRS certification appropriate for their volunteer position, as well as materials for self-study on basic income-tax law for federal and state returns. Several specific training sessions also will take place prior to the kick-off of tax season.

Many volunteers have gone on to find jobs preparing taxes. “This program is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to help residents file their taxes properly including local college students in need of volunteer hours or professional networking,” said Jack Dooling, VITA site coordinator at United Way of Tuscarawas County. “Our participants will gain valuable tax-preparation knowledge while helping local families get the maximum refund when they file. Volunteering with VITA is a rewarding experience.”

VITA volunteers are covered under the Volunteer Protection Act and are not accountable for tax returns filed to the IRS.

Because VITA volunteers are trained to identify tax credits that have been overlooked by other tax-assistance programs, the program can bring a substantial amount of money back into the community each year that otherwise wouldn’t be in the community. This money stimulates the local economy and helps people avoid the high cost of paid preparers and predatory lenders.

The clinics will start in February. VITA only accepts clients who have scheduled appointments. For an appointment, call 330-994-8482 beginning Jan. 6, Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Anyone interested in volunteering as a tax preparer should call Robin Waltz, president of the United Way of Tuscarawas County, at 330-343-7772 or email uwtc@neohio.twcbc.com.


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