Volunteer With Rise Up Foundation
Help your community file taxes for free. No tax background required — we provide full IRS certification training.
Volunteer Roles
We have roles for every skill level — from first-time volunteers to experienced tax professionals.
Tax Preparer
Prepare federal and state returns for clients using IRS-approved software. Requires Basic or Advanced certification through IRS Link & Learn.
Quality Reviewer
Review completed returns for accuracy before filing. Requires the same certification level as preparers plus quality review training.
Intake Specialist
Greet clients, verify documents, and complete intake forms. No tax certification required — training provided by Rise Up Foundation.
Site Coordinator
Manage volunteer schedules, client flow, and site operations. Ideal for experienced volunteers or those with organizational skills.
How to Become a Volunteer
Four steps from application to your first client appointment.
Apply Online
Complete the volunteer application. Tell us your availability, preferred location, and any prior tax or financial experience.
Complete IRS Training
Take the free IRS Link & Learn certification course online. Most volunteers complete Basic certification in 8–12 hours. Advanced certification covers more complex returns.
Pass the Certification Exam
Complete the IRS certification exam with a score of 80% or higher. You can retake the exam as many times as needed. Certification is valid for one tax season.
Start Helping Clients
Join your assigned VITA site and begin preparing returns under the supervision of experienced volunteers. Most sites operate January through April 15.
Time Commitment
Volunteers commit to 4–6 hours per week during tax season, which runs from late January through April 15. Sites operate on weekday evenings and weekends to accommodate volunteer schedules.
Volunteering with VITA counts toward community service hours and provides hands-on experience that supports careers in accounting, finance, social work, and community development.
Start IRS Training
