Every year, countless households across the United States struggle with the complexities of tax season. For low-to moderate-income households, paying for professional tax preparation can feel out of reach. On the other hand, missing out on important credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can mean leaving much-needed money on the table.
The IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program bridges this gap by providing free, high-quality volunteer tax assistance for qualifying households. Becoming a VITA tax volunteer offers a meaningful opportunity to help others - and it can help you too.
What is the VITA Program?
The VITA program offers free tax help to people in households whose total income is less than about $70,000 annually, although the exact IRS-designated threshold amount varies by year. Individuals with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency are also eligible for the program. Volunteers from all walks of life, from students and retirees to working professionals, help these taxpayers file accurate federal and state returns.
Anyone can become a qualified tax preparer. Each volunteer tax preparer receives free IRS-approved training to become certified in tax law, software use, and interview techniques, ensuring that every return is handled with care and accuracy. The IRS even provides access to electronic filing systems and continuing education materials so that volunteers can stay confident and up to date.
How VITA Volunteers Help Their Communities
Tax refunds can be life-changing for working households. Many VITA clients qualify for credits such as the EITC or the Child Tax Credit, both of which can significantly increase household income. Unfortunately, without affordable tax assistance, many people either don't file their returns at all or feel forced to turn to expensive commercial preparers.
By becoming an IRS-certified volunteer tax preparer, you help ensure that households receive every credit they've earned - money that goes not just into the pockets of hard-working Americans but often directly back into their local economies. According to the IRS, VITA volunteers collectively help millions of Americans each year.
Volunteers also play a vital role in reducing tax-related barriers that disproportionately affect lower-income households. These often include the high cost of professional tax preparation and the complexity of claiming certain tax credits, both of which can make filing seem out of reach for struggling households.
The Personal Benefits of Volunteering
Becoming a certified tax preparer volunteer is a win-win. In addition to serving others, you'll gain professional and personal benefits that last far beyond tax season.
Build Highly Marketable Skills
VITA volunteers gain hands-on experience in financial management, accounting, and customer service - skills that employers value in nearly every industry. VITA volunteers learn to navigate tax preparation software, interpret IRS guidelines, and communicate effectively with diverse populations.
Strengthen Your Resume
Volunteering with a nationally recognized program such as VITA demonstrates both technical knowledge and civic engagement. Volunteers who complete IRS certification earn credentials that can be included on their resumes, which is especially beneficial for those pursuing careers in finance, business, or public service.
Make a Lasting Impact
Volunteers often describe their experience as deeply fulfilling. By helping others reclaim their financial footing, you provide tangible relief and empowerment. VITA volunteers not only help households save money but also help clients learn to trust financial systems and take steps toward long-term stability.
Enjoy Flexibility and Support
Many roles exist beyond tax preparation itself, such as greeting clients, helping with intake, or managing appointments. The IRS and their nonprofit partners provide flexible schedules and comprehensive training, so volunteers can give back without overwhelming their calendars.
Local Spotlight: Helping Working Households in York County
In York County, Pennsylvania, many working households are living paycheck to paycheck. A single unexpected expense or the loss of a few hundred dollars in tax fees can be devastating. Free, accurate tax preparation can make all the difference between financial stability and hardship.
The United Way of York County (UWYC) operates a local VITA program that directly supports these Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) households. Last year alone, York County VITA volunteers helped local residents claim hundreds of thousands of dollars in refunds - money that went right back into the community to pay for food, rent, health care, and education.
A Simple Act With a Big Impact
Tax preparation might not sound like a typical form of community service, but for households trying to make ends meet, it's transformative. When you volunteer with the VITA program, you're not just crunching numbers; you're empowering neighbors, strengthening communities, and ensuring that financial opportunity is within everyone's reach.
If you're ready to make a difference this tax season, consider joining the UWYC's VITA team. Your time and talent could help change someone's financial future - one tax return at a time.
Become a Volunteer Income Tax Assistant With UWYC
UWYC in Pennsylvania assists hardworking households on their journey toward financial stability. To meet the needs of the ALICE population, we are embarking on an issue-focused strategy to create a transformational impact for workers, including offering free assistance with filing taxes.
The VITA program provides access to free tax preparation and assistance to households and individuals making less than $67,000 per year in York County. If you have experience in or would like to learn about tax preparation, you can help us make a difference. Volunteer with us today!
With one donation, you can help your ALICE neighbors and friends. Gifts to the UWYC Impact Fund are dollars that stay in York County and impact lives where you live and work. Please consider giving today!