State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks recently made an urgent call for eligible Michiganders to take part in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program before the 2022 individual income tax season.
The VITA program is an Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-sponsored program that provides free tax help to people who generally make $57,000 or less, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and limited English-speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns.
Volunteer recruitment is vital every year, but this year’s needs are particularly pressing.
While COVID-19 has depleted the ranks of volunteers by nearly 70% at some community programs, the number of residents who need free tax preparation services continues to climb.
Volunteer tax preparation helps Americans claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC), federal tax benefits that help workers care for their families, withstand unexpected economic changes, and reduce poverty. VITA programs save Michiganders approximately $19.5M annually in tax preparation fees alone.
Volunteers assisting with the VITA Program come from all walks of life: working professionals, retirees, college and high school students, IRS employees, and people who just want to contribute to their community. No previous tax experience is required.
VITA tax volunteers are assigned to work with a sponsoring organization, first to receive training and then to begin volunteering at a convenient location. Training is offered both online and in the classroom.
Tax sites are generally open nights and weekends, and the hours are flexible, allowing volunteers to choose time slots that fit their schedules. Individuals can sign up through the IRS.
Learn more below.
To Volunteer: https://www.opssupport-surveys.com/se/2511374571F86012
Volunteer Information: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-tax-volunteers
Taxpayer Assistance Information: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers
