If you want to give back to your community and help people with low to moderate incomes, consider applying to volunteer with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. These programs offer free tax help to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and those who speak limited English to understand their tax situations.
Here are some of the perks of being a VITA or TCE volunteer:
- Flexible hours: Generally, volunteers contribute 3-5 hours per week. Some sites are open all year, but most programs are available from January–April.
- Convenience: Thousands of VITA and TCE sites exist in neighborhoods across the country, so it’s convenient to volunteer at a location close to you. Usually, these locations are in community centers, libraries, schools, and malls.
- No experience needed: You don’t have to be a tax pro to volunteer because all volunteers receive special training and can serve in various roles.
Tip adapted from IRS.gov6
Footnotes and Sources
- IRS.gov, January 11, 2023