Volunteer Positions
I. Tax Preparer
As a Tax Preparer, you will assist working families to e-file their returns. You will accurately apply tax law and identify any tax benefits for which the taxpayer qualifies.
Specific duties include:
• Complete an IRS tax law and tax software training before being certified to prepare returns .
• Prepare basic 1040 tax returns and related schedules.
• Prepare an accurate return based on information provided by the taxpayer.
• Answer tax questions.
• Maintain confidentiality of taxpayer information.
II. Screener/Greeter
Screeners provide a friendly and welcoming atmosphere while checking that families have brought all the necessary personal finance information to the VITA site.
Specific duties include:
• Complete an IRS tax law training and get certified.
• Screen all taxpayers to determine the type of assistance needed.
• Ensure that the taxpayer has brought all necessary information (e.g. W-2, 1099’s, last year’s returns) to complete their returns.
• Monitor site traffic to ensure taxpayers receive prompt assistance.
Greeters have most of the screener’s responsibilities, but are not required to be trained and certified in tax law. They are not allowed to answer tax questions from clients.
III. Site Coordinator (previous VITA experience desirable)
As a Site Coordinator, you will be responsible for maintaining effective operations at the VITA site. Your efforts will keep the site organized and efficient, ensuring that the VITA site and volunteers are upholding the proper standards of service and quality.
Specific duties include:
• Complete and pass IRS tax law and tax software training and get certified.
• Enforce a Quality Review process for the VITA site.
• Provide feedback to Tax Preparers regarding tax prep errors.
• Develop and maintain a schedule for volunteers.
• Open and close the VITA site.
• Report to the VITA Program Manager and the site host.
• Perform typical administrative duties.
IV. Instructor (requires tax experience)
Instructors are responsible for teaching VITA volunteers about tax law, interview techniques and using e-file software. Your efforts will keep volunteers trained and able to accurately file returns, interview, and protect taxpayer privacy. Instructors must have a minimum of four years experience preparing taxes - either personal or commercial.
Specific duties include:
• Complete a train the trainer and obtain levels of certification based on the course being taught (basic, intermediate, etc.)
• Deliver tax law training and certification courses using materials provided by the IRS.
V. Quality Reviewer
As a quality reviewer you ensure that every return is accurate before being transmitted to the IRS. Previous tax preparation experience and a solid foundation in tax law concepts are valued for this position.
Specific duties include:
• Complete an IRS tax law and tax software training before being certified to prepare returns.
• Complete an additional online Quality Review training.
• Review completed returns for accuracy using an IRS checklist.
• Provide feedback to Tax Preparers on errors made.
VI. Interpreter
As an Interpreter, you will provide complimentary interpreter services at the VITA sites. Interpreters are asked to be fluent in speaking both Spanish and English, as well as both friendly and dependable. Interpreters are also needed in additional languages.
VII. Electronic Return Originator
As an Electronic Return Originator, you will be responsible for transmitting the e-files at the end of each VITA session.
Specific Duties include:
• Electronically transmit electronic returns and keep records.
• Manage rejected returns and ensure they are resolved and retransmitted in a timely fashion.
• Complete an IRS tax law and software training to get certified.
• Take an additional 1 hour ERO training.
