Conway, AR – Arkansas Asset Builders and United Way of Central Arkansas are seeking volunteers for their Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs during the 2024 tax season. Volunteers are needed to provide no-cost tax preparation and supporting services for residents of Faulkner County and surrounding communities who earn less than $64,000 per year.
IRS-certified volunteers are the unsung heroes of tax filing season. Every year, they step up to help taxpayers successfully file their tax returns and avoid unnecessary fees. Anyone who wants to make a difference in their community, learn about tax preparation, or earn continuing education credits as a financial professional should consider volunteering. High school and college students are especially encouraged to get involved, as they can build professional skills that will last a lifetime!
Free training is available online with classroom-style instruction offered throughout the holiday season and early January. The instruction and training materials cover how to prepare individual income tax returns and how to file them electronically using online tax preparation software. Opportunities are available for either in-person or remote volunteer service, scheduled in the daytime, evening, or weekend from late January through April.
“Volunteers are the critical ingredient to the success of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance programs in our community. Each hour of volunteer service brings back an average of $600 in tax refunds to Central Arkansas! Our tax site volunteers also put a human face on the IRS, easing the anxiety of so many taxpayers who are intimidated by the tax filing process,” said Joyia Yorgey, Executive Director of Arkansas Asset Builders.
Last season, VITA programs at Arkansas Asset Builders and United Way of Central Arkansas combined to generate federal refunds exceeding $730,000 across Faulkner County and the central Arkansas region. The dedication of certified volunteers enabled more than 880 VITA clients to access vital tax assistance, saving them over $211,000 in tax preparation fees that could then be used for essential needs such as food, medical care, housing, and more.
“We are thrilled to continue to serve our community members alongside dedicated volunteers. This program is vital to giving our community members access to knowledgeable and helpful tax preparers. Our new office at 1107 Main Street will provide better parking and more space for taxpayers and volunteers. We are excited and ready to partner with great volunteers this upcoming tax season,” said Jessica Clawson, Executive Director of United Way of Central Arkansas.
To become a VITA community tax volunteer, go to IRS.gov/volunteers and submit your interest. The IRS will send you an invitation to a virtual orientation session where you will learn more about the program, find out which volunteer role is right for you and get answers to your questions. Sign up today!
Latest news in Conway and for Conway Scene.