The program links residents to valuable tax credits that can provide critical financial support to lower income households. Last year, volunteers served 2,820 hours, helping Community Action’s VITA program serve 1,946 households. That represented a tax impact of nearly $7 million.
“Ensuring that eligible low-income residents have access to tax preparation from qualified preparers can help them learn about and apply for all tax credits they are eligible for,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Year after year, the VITA program provides beneficial services and I encourage anyone who is interested in providing neighbor to neighbor help to learn more about the volunteer opportunity.”
For the upcoming tax season, there is a significant need for volunteer schedulers. These volunteers are not directly involved in tax preparation, but assist residents by answering phone calls and scheduling appointments using an online scheduling system.
VITA volunteers receive free training and volunteer opportunities are available in Rockville, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg or Wheaton. Hours and locations are flexible. High school students may receive SSL hours by volunteering as greeters or schedulers. Bilingual volunteers (English and Spanish) are strongly encouraged to participate as a volunteer. Volunteers should complete the online registration form.
Online information sessions for prospective volunteers will be held from 10:30–11:30 a.m. and 6-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 8. The sessions will provide an overview of the program and the various volunteer positions available. Please register online for one of the sessions. Visit montgomerycountymd.gov/CASHBACK or call 240-777-1123 to learn more about volunteering, or email VITA@montgomerycountymd.gov.
