As tax season approaches, one of the most meaningful ways tax professionals can give back is through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. These programs provide free, basic tax return preparation for qualifying taxpayers, and the IRS is once again calling for volunteers for the upcoming filing season.

What VITA and TCE do

VITA and TCE deliver no-cost tax preparation for people who need it most. VITA helps low to moderate income taxpayers, people with disabilities and those with limited English skills. TCE focuses on taxpayers age 60 or older, especially those with pension and retirement questions.

These programs operate through IRS partners at thousands of sites across the nation. Volunteers are certified by the IRS and use approved training and software to prepare returns. VITA has been in operation for over 50 years and remains a trusted source of free tax assistance.

Why it matters for communities and your practice

• Expand access: Many taxpayers cannot afford paid preparation or do not feel comfortable filing on their own. VITA bridges the gap and ensures more people claim eligible credits.
• Build goodwill: Your participation shows a commitment to public service. Clients and potential clients notice when professionals step up for their communities.
• Develop skills: Volunteers sharpen their knowledge of basic tax law and improve their communication skills.
• Create connections: Working face-to-face with taxpayers builds trust. Some VITA clients later return for paid services when their needs become more complex.

How to get involved

• Volunteer opportunities: The IRS is recruiting volunteers now for the filing season. You can sign up between October and January. Many sites offer flexible hours, including evenings, weekends and virtual options. Within about two weeks of registering, you’ll be connected to a local site and receive an invitation to a virtual orientation.
• Training and certification: No prior experience is necessary. Volunteers complete IRS-provided training and certification before working with taxpayers. Certification levels determine which types of returns you can prepare, all within the program’s scope. This certification is required annually.
• Roles beyond return preparation: Sites also need interpreters, greeters, quality reviewers, instructors, IT support and outreach help. Each role is essential to smooth operations.
• Locating sites: Tax pros and clients can find VITA or TCE locations through the IRS site locator tool. Some offer “Self-Prep” options where taxpayers prepare their own returns using software with volunteer guidance.

Benefits for taxpayers

• Free return preparation: Eligible taxpayers can have their basic returns prepared at no cost.
• Reliable service: Volunteers are IRS-certified and use official software and training to ensure accuracy.
• Guided help: Some locations offer supervised self-prep options, combining autonomy with volunteer support.
• Convenient access: Sites are often located in schools, libraries, churches or community centers, making them easy to reach.

Numbers show the impact

Every year, VITA and TCE help millions of taxpayers file accurate returns and claim valuable credits. For many, these refunds are critical to their financial stability. IRS grants also support these programs, ensuring they continue to serve underserved populations nationwide.

What’s next

The VITA and TCE programs embody the best of what tax professionals can offer, like their expertise, time and commitment to their community. For practitioners, volunteering is more than service. It is a chance to showcase your firm’s values, expand your professional network and help taxpayers who need guidance the most.

If you already volunteer, consider stepping into a leadership role, such as site coordinator, trainer or mentor. If you’re new, now is the time to explore how you can participate. Your involvement can make the tax season less stressful and more successful for the people you serve.