United Way of Greater Greensboro is looking for volunteers who are interested in helping improve financial stability in our community.

Did you know 1 in 2 North Carolinians lack the savings to cover basic expenses for three months if unemployment, a medical emergency or other crisis leads to a loss of stable income? (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, 2010)

Volunteers are needed to help low- to moderate-income families file their taxes through the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. Volunteers will file federal and state income tax returns for free for people who make $53,000 or less and need assistance in preparing their own tax returns.

Many low- to moderate-income families pay $200 or more for tax preparation services. When you’re walking a financial tightrope, saving $200 or more can make a big difference in preventing a financial crisis.  By helping families make every dollar go farther, United Way is offering solutions that move people towards financial independence and a better quality of life.

As a volunteer, you will meet with taxpayers, answer their questions, prepare returns online with the information they provide. It takes 30 minutes to prepare a simple return. Volunteers are expected to commit to 12-30 hours during the tax filing season, but exact hours are flexible. There are several locations throughout Greensboro.

The software does all the math for you; no prior accounting or tax knowledge needed. All training is provided by the IRS. Volunteers must pass a test online in order to be certified, and agree to Standards of Conduct. You should be friendly, able to think logically, an accurate typist, and have basic computer and Internet skills.

To apply as a VITA Tax Prep Volunteer, contact Sarah Glover by email (Sarah.Glover@UnitedWayGSO.org) to indicate your interest, and further details will be provided.

Click here to read through a few frequently asked questions. For more information, contact Sarah Glover at 336-378-5036 or Sarah.Glover@UnitedWayGSO.org.