Volunteer with Tax Help Colorado
Join our Volunteer Kickoff on Nov. 20 to learn more about becoming an IRS-certified volunteer this tax season. During the event, you will learn about the training program, volunteer roles and the impact of Tax Help Colorado.
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Every hour volunteered puts an average of $1,700 in the hands of families
Tax preparation can be a confusing and expensive process for many. Tax Help Colorado removes these challenges by offering high-quality, free tax assistance thanks to a growing network of dedicated volunteers. No prior experience or tax knowledge is necessary!
As an IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, we provide all the training you need to become IRS-certified. As a volunteer, you are providing more than a tax refund. You are helping families save money and build a better future.
HOW TO VOLUNTEER
1. Complete Interest Form
Let us know you’re interested in volunteering with Tax Help Colorado. After submitting the interest form, a member of the Tax Help Colorado team will contact you with next steps. You can also register to join our Volunteer Kickoff on Nov. 20 to learn more about becoming an IRS-certified volunteer this tax season.
2. Train
- New Tax Preparers: Watch three training videos and complete independent readings, optional practice assignments, and an open-book IRS certification. In-person training sessions are also available at Mile High United Way. Total training time: 10 hours, plus five to 10 hours for reading and certification.
- New Greeters, Translators & Virtual Client Liaisons: Watch one two-hour virtual training video. Total time: two hours.
- Returning Tax-Certified Volunteers: Watch one 90-minute virtual refresher training and complete current year certification exam independently. Total time: 3 hours. *Optional: Returning volunteers may attend new volunteer trainings if they wish.
3. Volunteer
- Tax-Certified Volunteers: Volunteer 25 hours during tax season (January 25 – April 15)
- Drop Off Intake Assistants & Virtual Client Liaisons: Volunteer 25 hours during tax season (January 25 – April 15)
- Interpreters: Volunteer 15 hours during tax season (January 25 – April 15)
Volunteers who meet their hours requirement will be invited to an end-of-season celebration that brings together our community of volunteers. Previous events included a Colorado Rockies game and a reception at the Wynkoop Brewery pool hall.
VOLUNTEER ROLES NEEDED
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Tax preparers work one-on-one with Tax Help Colorado clients to prepare their federal and state tax returns using the TaxSlayer software.
Skills Needed:
- Knowledge of basic or advanced income tax preparation after completing the trainings provided by Tax Help Colorado
- Proficient computer skills
- Ability to effectively communicate with and engage clients
- Ability to provide outstanding customer service and maintain the privacy of all clients
Commitment:
- Watch training videos (10 hours total)
- Complete readings in Volunteer Training Guide
- Pass the (open-book) IRS certification test
- Volunteer 25 hours during tax season (January 25 – April 15)
Quality reviewers provide thorough oversight of all federal and state tax returns prepared by tax site volunteers and correct errors. You will also review completed returns with clients and answer their questions as needed.
Skills Needed:
- Strong understanding of individual income taxes
- At least one year experience preparing individual income tax returns
- Proficient computer skills
- Ability to provide outstanding customer service and maintain the privacy of all clients
Commitment:
- Watch training videos (10 hours total)
- Complete readings in Volunteer Training Guide
- Pass the (open-book) Advanced IRS certification test
- Volunteer 25 hours during tax season (January 25 – April 15)
Interpreters provide language interpreter services to clients who are not fluent in English at our free tax sites. This includes working with clients and tax preparers to translate questions during the interview, tax prep and review process. No tax training is necessary for this role.
Skills Needed:
- Bilingual
- Positive attitude and friendly demeanor
- Ability to effectively communicate with and engage clients
- Ability to provide outstanding customer service and maintain the privacy of all clients
Commitment:
- Watch a two-hour training video
- Pass the (open-book) Volunteer Standards of Conduct exam
- Volunteer 15 hours during tax season (January 25 – April 15)
Skills Needed:
- Strong understanding of individual income taxes
- At least one tax season of experience preparing individual income tax returns
- Ability to effectively communicate with and engage clients
- Ability to provide outstanding customer service and maintain the privacy of all clients
Commitment:
- Watch training videos (10 hours total)
- Complete readings in Volunteer Training Guide
- Pass the (open-book) Advanced IRS certification test
- Volunteer 25 hours during tax season (January 25 – April 15)
“I was really drawn to learning about financial topics that have a major impact in our community. When I learned about Tax Help Colorado, I thought it was too good to be true. It was everything I wanted … There’s a wide range of people this program benefits and helping them out was really rewarding. ”
Chanda
Tax Help Colorado Volunteer
“I’m always astonished at all the hurdles the Tax Help customers already navigate, and I’m thrilled to help remove one barrier from their path. I love that even someone like me without a financial background can be an effective volunteer and help other taxpayers!”
Heidi
Tax Help Colorado Volunteer
“Nancy went above and beyond, helping residents obtain their individual taxpayer identification number, a complex and often confusing process. Additionally, she served as a translator for tax preparers in other regions of the state.”
Testimonial About Nancy
Tax Help Colorado Volunteer
CONTACT US
Have questions? Complete the following form or email info@taxhelpco.org.
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