Every year, millions of Americans rely on trusted tax assistance programs to meet their filing obligations and claim valuable tax credits.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and its community partners are now calling for volunteers to join the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs—two initiatives that make a meaningful difference in local communities.
What Are VITA and TCE?
For more than half a century, the VITA and TCE programs have provided free, reliable tax preparation services to individuals and families who need them most.
These include taxpayers eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), people with disabilities, those with limited English proficiency, and senior citizens.
With the help of dedicated volunteers, millions of accurate tax returns are prepared each year at no cost.
A Tradition of Service and Learning
The strength of the VITA and TCE programs lies in their volunteers—people from all walks of life who share a passion for helping others.
From high school students eager to learn new skills to retirees looking to give back, volunteers bring compassion, patience, and community spirit to the work.
Whether you’re starting your career or seeking a meaningful way to stay active, volunteering offers personal and professional rewards.
No Experience? No Problem!
One of the most welcoming aspects of these programs is that no prior tax experience is required. The IRS provides free, specialized training for all volunteers, ensuring they’re fully prepared to assist taxpayers confidently and accurately.
Volunteers learn the fundamentals of tax law, electronic filing, and ethical responsibility—valuable skills that can enhance resumes and open new career opportunities.
Flexible Schedules and Locations
Volunteering shouldn’t mean rearranging your entire life. The VITA and TCE programs understand that flexibility matters. That’s why volunteer sites operate across the country, offering both in-person and virtual options.
Most locations schedule evening and weekend shifts, allowing volunteers to contribute at times that best fit their personal or professional schedules.
Diverse Roles for Every Talent
Helping people file their taxes isn’t the only way to get involved. The VITA and TCE programs offer a variety of volunteer roles that suit different skills and interests.
In addition to tax preparers, volunteers are needed as greeters, site coordinators, translators, marketing specialists, and IT troubleshooters. Whether you enjoy interacting with people or solving technical challenges, there’s a place for you.
Earn Professional Credit While Serving Others
Tax professionals can also benefit from volunteering by earning Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. The IRS has approved the VITA/TCE program to provide credits for Enrolled Agents (EA), non-credentialed tax preparers, and those registered with the California Tax Education Council (CTEC) or as California Registered Tax Preparers (CRTP). It’s a rewarding way to stay current in your field while making a lasting community impact.
Why Your Time Matters
Each volunteer hour makes a tangible difference. For many low- and moderate-income households, access to free tax assistance can mean hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in savings.
Volunteers not only help ensure returns are filed accurately but also help taxpayers claim credits and refunds they might otherwise miss. By donating your time, you’re strengthening financial stability in your community.
When and How to Get Started
The IRS encourages interested individuals to sign up between October and January to volunteer during the upcoming filing season.
Those who register after January will have their information saved for next year’s opportunities. If you’ve signed up within the last two months, there’s no need to reapply unless your contact details have changed.
Easy Steps to Join
Becoming a volunteer is simple. Visit IRS.gov/volunteers or use the VITA/TCE Volunteer and Partner Sign Up form to express your interest. About two weeks after registering, the IRS will send you a list of local volunteer sites and an invitation to join a virtual orientation session. From there, you’ll begin your training and be ready to make a difference.
Make a Difference—One Return at a Time
Volunteering with VITA or TCE isn’t just about taxes—it’s about people. Every return you help prepare represents a family better equipped to meet their needs, a senior citizen relieved of financial stress, or a new immigrant navigating an unfamiliar system.
The impact goes far beyond numbers; it’s about trust, service, and empowerment.
If you’ve ever wanted to give back while building valuable skills, now is the perfect time. The IRS’s VITA and TCE programs offer the chance to make tax season less stressful and more successful for millions of Americans.
Sign up today and join a network of volunteers transforming financial confidence—one taxpayer at a time.
FAQs
Who can volunteer for the IRS VITA/TCE programs?
Anyone—from students to retirees—can volunteer. The IRS provides free training, and no prior tax experience is required.
What roles are available for VITA/TCE volunteers?
Volunteers can serve as tax preparers, greeters, marketing assistants, translators, or IT support staff. Each role helps the community during tax season.
Do volunteers receive any benefits or credits?
Yes. Tax professionals may earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. All volunteers gain valuable experience and the satisfaction of helping others.
How do I sign up to volunteer?
Visit IRS.gov/volunteers or complete the VITA/TCE Volunteer and Partner Sign Up form. The IRS will contact you within about two weeks with local site information and training details.
