For Hometown News
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY -- The United Way of Indian River County needs people to provide free tax preparation assistance through the volunteer income tax assistance program. VITA is available to low- to moderate-income individuals and families earning less than $49,000 a year.
VITA volunteers play a critical role in ensuring low-income county residents access valuable tax credits without paying high fees.
Volunteers also provide important information to customers about other free programs such as benefits screenings, financial education or budget coaching, helping clients to turn their tax refunds into long-lasting financial security.
Benefits of becoming a VITA volunteer include: free IRS training and materials to help develop lifelong skills and build resumes; a variety of locations, dates and times convenient to schedule; ongoing support; a certificate of recognition and letter of appreciation from the IRS at the end of the tax season and personal satisfaction from providing an important service to the community.
No accounting experience is required. The tax software provides guidance and volunteers are protected under the Volunteer Protection Act.
Volunteer training in Indian River County will be held Dec. 17-21 and certification will be attained online. Certified volunteers will be required to commit to two half-days or one full-day per week from Jan. 22- April 15, 2013.
To volunteer, email eve.ballance@unitedwayirc.org or call (772) 567-8900 Ext. 20.