This FAQ was created to help answer common questions from providers and to support your work with Tax Credit Alliance of Nebraska/Lincoln VITA. Whether you're new or have been involved for a while, we hope this resource makes it easier to find the information you need.
General Program Questions
What is the VITA program?
The VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program is an IRS-sponsored initiative that provides free tax preparation services to eligible individuals and families. It's a wonderful community effort where IRS-certified volunteers help people confidently file their federal and state income tax returns.
The primary service provided is free basic income tax return preparation, including electronic filing. Volunteers ensure taxpayers claim all eligible credits and deductions, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which can significantly boost their financial well-being. It's all about making tax filing accessible and empowering those who need it most
What kind of work will I be doing as a volunteer?
The VITA program relies on a diverse team of volunteers to make a real difference. Here's a breakdown of the common roles:
Tax Preparer: This is a core role where you'll directly prepare federal and state income tax returns for clients using specialized IRS tax software. You'll interview taxpayers to gather all necessary information, identify eligible credits and deductions, and ensure accurate filing.
Greeting/Intake: You'll be the welcoming face of the VITA site! Greeters’ welcome clients, help them understand the process, verify they have all the necessary documents, and assist with initial paperwork. This role is perfect for friendly, organized individuals who enjoy interacting with the public and don't require tax certification.
Interpreter: If you are fluent in another language, especially Spanish, you can serve as an Interpreter, helping bridge communication gaps between tax preparers and clients who are limited English speakers. Basic tax knowledge can be helpful but isn't always required for this role.
Training & Certification
Do I need prior tax or accounting experience? Is it okay if I’ve never done taxes before?
You do NOT need prior tax or accounting experience to volunteer with VITA.
In fact, many of our most successful volunteers started with no tax preparation background at all.
It is completely okay if you've never done taxes before! We provide free, comprehensive training and certification that will teach you everything you need to know to confidently prepare basic tax returns. Our training covers tax law, software usage, and ethical considerations. You'll be well-prepared and supported every step of the way by experienced volunteers and coordinators. Your willingness to learn and help is what truly matters
Is training provided? What does the training involve, and how long does it take?
Yes, training is provided.
What it involves:
- IRS-certified tax law training (covering filing status, income, deductions, credits, etc.)
- Using IRS-provided tax preparation software
- Ethics and confidentiality standards
How long it takes:
- Typically, 15–20 hours, depending on your pace
- Can be completed online and/or through in-person sessions, and online webinars
- Ends with an IRS certification exam (open book)
Do I have to pass a test or get certified?
Yes, you must pass a certification test to volunteer.
Required certification level:
All Volunteers will be required to pass Intake/Interview and Volunteer Standards of Conduct regardless of role.
- Tax Preparer volunteers need the Basic Tax Law certification.
- Additional certifications are optional (e.g., Advanced, Military, or International).
Note: Certification is an open-book and completed online through the IRS Link & Learn Taxes platform.
Time Commitment & Schedule
How much time do I need to commit? Are there minimum hour requirements or specific schedules?
Time commitment is flexible, but sites often request:
- Minimum of 3–4 hours per week during tax season (typically late January through mid-April)
- Schedules vary by location; evening and weekend shifts may be available
Talk to your local VITA site coordinator for specific expectations.
Can I choose my own shifts or locations? Is there flexibility in when and where I volunteer?
Yes, there is flexibility.
- You can usually choose your shifts based on your availability—day, evening, or weekend options.
- You can often choose from multiple locations if your local VITA program operates several sites.
Check with your site coordinator for specific scheduling and location options.
When does training start? What if I cannot attend an in person or webinar training?
Training typically starts in October or November and continues through January.
If you can’t attend in-person or webinar training:
- You can complete self-paced online training through our online courses and the IRS Link & Learn Taxes platform.
- All materials, practice returns, and exams are available online.
- All training sessions will be recorded, and volunteers will have access to at any time
This allows you to train on your own schedule.
How will I know when/where training is?
You’ll be informed about training details through:
- Emails from your local VITA program coordinator
- Announcements on the VITA program’s website or volunteer portal
Make sure your contact info is up to date, and you have signed up for our volunteer update emails. Then just check your email regularly for invites and updates!
Support & Benefits
Is there support available while volunteering (e.g., someone to answer tax questions)? What happens if I encounter a tax scenario I don’t understand?
Yes, support is available while volunteering.
- Experienced Site Coordinators and Volunteer Instructors are on hand to assist with questions.
- Volunteers can consult IRS resources and help desks during tax preparation.
- If you encounter a complex tax scenario, you can escalate it to an advanced volunteer or supervisor for guidance.
You’re never expected to handle unfamiliar situations alone.
Can this count toward community service, internship, or class credit? Will I get a certificate of service or letter of recommendation?
Yes, volunteering with VITA often counts toward community service, internships, or class credit—but you should check with your school or program to confirm their policies.
Many VITA sites provide:
- Certificates of service documenting your volunteer hours
- Letters of recommendation upon request, especially if you’re a committed volunteer
Do I need to bring my own equipment (e.g., laptop)?
No, volunteers do not need to bring their own equipment.
- VITA sites provide all necessary computers, software, and materials.
Language and Cultural Needs
Are there opportunities for bilingual volunteers? Do I need to speak English fluently?
Yes, there are definitely opportunities for bilingual volunteers.
- Many VITA sites serve clients who speak languages other than English and actively seek bilingual volunteers to help with interpretation and translation.
- While English fluency is helpful, it’s not always required if you can assist clients in another language.
- Bilingual volunteers often help bridge communication gaps and improve client comfort and understanding.
If you speak another language, be sure to let your site coordinator know!
Can I volunteer as an interpreter only? Are there non-tax preparation roles for people fluent in other languages?
Yes, you can volunteer as an interpreter only.
- Many VITA sites welcome bilingual volunteers in non-tax roles like interpreting, client intake, and document assistance.
- These roles don’t require tax certification but are crucial for helping non-English-speaking clients navigate the process smoothly.
Just let your site coordinator know your language skills and interest in interpretation or support roles!