The IRC operates a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program to provide FREE tax preparation services to low- and moderate-income families who cannot afford to pay $200+ for a tax return. As a tax site intern, you will provide invaluable assistance to refugee and asylum-seeking families, as well as other low-income individuals and families, by preparing their taxes for free and connecting them with other IRC resources when appropriate, including translation services. You will work one-on-one with clients helping them to navigate the ins and outs of tax preparation, with the support and training necessary to do so. You will also work directly with VITA volunteers and the VITA Site Coordinator to ensure that all systems and operations run smoothly during tax season.
NO PREVIOUS TAX EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! If selected as an intern, the IRC will provide you with training that results in your certification as a volunteer income tax preparer. This training involves a self-directed online curriculum before your placement begins. This is an excellent opportunity to gain skills in tax preparation while providing invaluable help to families and individuals needing your expertise.
Responsibilities:
· Work directly with the VITA Site Coordinator and Economic Empowerment Supervisor to coordinate VITA services, including communicating with clients and volunteers and providing on-site support
· Greet clients and help them check-in for appointments, including conducting screening assessments and assisting them with filling out forms
· Prepare Federal tax returns for refugee and low-income populations
· Perform quality reviews to ensure returns are prepared correctly
· Answer phone calls
· Schedule client appointments
· Scan and upload documents as needed
· Work with interpreters