Time is drawing near for the opening of tax season and the United Way of Porter County (UWPC) is seeking additional volunteers to help local residents prepare federal and state taxes.
For the sixth year UWPC is hosting the Internal Revenue Service VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program that depends on certified volunteers to help moderate, low income, elderly and disabled taxpayers have their taxes prepared for free.
Returning volunteers are already working on certification for the 2015 tax season. However, in order to expand the program additional volunteers are needed. Tax preparation will begin on Monday, February 1 and certification only has to be completed by the time the first client is seen.
A workshop session for new and returning volunteers is scheduled from 5 to 7 pm on Tuesday, January 19 in Community Room A at the United Way, 951 Eastport Centre Drive. Refreshments will be served. New and returning volunteers are asked to RSVP by calling: (219) 464-3583 x128
“We are pleased to provide this valuable service to the Porter County and surrounding community residents who meet the qualifications, but we can only do so with those who come forward to volunteer,” said Kim Olesker, President of the United Way of Porter County. “Last year more than 630 taxpayers were helped, all because volunteers were willing to help with their time. We are hoping to serve more this year, but it only can be done with additional volunteers.”
Last year 13 volunteers participated. “The program is aiming for 20 volunteers during the new tax season and with an additional day of preparation added, it is hoped more than 900 people can be served,” said George Kuebler, UWPC VITA Site Supervisor. The IRS provides free tax law training and materials. Volunteers learn how to prepare basic tax returns and learn about tax deductions and credits that benefit eligible taxpayers. These include credits such as the Earned Income Tax Cred, Child Tax Credit and Credit for the Elderly.
“You don’t need prior experience. You’ll receive free specialized training and can serve in a variety of roles to be a VITA volunteer,” added Kuebler. “Many volunteers return year after year because it is a rewarding experience to assist other members of the community in completing their tax returns”.
All tax preparations are done on-line using IRS web-based tax software. The training focuses on tax law and how it applies to the individual taxpayer. Math calculations are handled by the computer program. Supporting printed materials are supplied. Completion of a training results in IRS certification to participate in the VITA program.
Previous and returning VITA volunteers have included everyone from homemakers to retired accountants. “There is a volunteer role for everyone regardless of background,” stated the United Way VITA site supervisor. For more information, contact george@unitedwaypc.org or (219) 464-3583 x128.
United Way’s mission is to lead, unite and inspire our community to improve lives.