VITA is a nationwide program that partners with community groups to offer IRS-certified, free tax return preparation and assistance. The UNL Center for Civic Engagement coordinates several tax preparation sites throughout Lancaster Country.
The program seeks volunteers to help low- to moderate-income families, senior citizens, disabled individuals, and people who speak English as a second language, complete their tax returns for free. Volunteers also can use the program to prepare their own returns.
VITA helps taxpayers get all the credits and deductions they are entitled to, leading to the largest refund possible. This year, volunteers helped more than 2,500 taxpayers in the Lincoln area receive more than $2.7 million in tax refunds.
Volunteers receive IRS-certified training on how to prepare tax returns using a computer and tax software, including electronic filing. Instruction will cover both federal and state tax returns.
Online training will occur between November and January. Classroom training will also be available. Once certified, volunteers can spend as little as 3 to 4 hours per week volunteering in February, March, and April.
Volunteers can help by preparing tax returns, or by being a greeter, site coordinator, or quality reviewer.
For more information or to volunteer, visit:
lincolnvitacoalition.unl.edu, call 402-472-9638, or email vita@unl.edu.