Montgomery County Community Action Agency Seeks Volunteers to Support Free Tax Assistance Program

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, October 23, 2024

The Montgomery County Community Action Agency's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is recruiting volunteers for the upcoming tax season, which runs from January through mid-April. Volunteers can become IRS-certified VITA tax preparers, schedulers, greeters, quality reviewers and site coordinators. The VITA tax program provides free tax help to eligible County residents, including Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) holders with household incomes of $67,000 or less.

The VITA program connects residents to critical tax credits that help support lower-income households. Last year, volunteers dedicated 3,008 hours to assist the program in serving 2,246 households, resulting in a tax impact of nearly $8.6 million. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to complete an online registration form.

"Montgomery County's VITA program plays a key role in supporting eligible residents by offering free tax preparation and connecting them to essential tax credits," said County Executive Marc Elrich. "This effort is powered by dedicated volunteers who contribute their time and expertise to strengthen our community. I encourage anyone wanting to make a difference, whether you have tax experience or just want to help, to join our VITA volunteer team."

There is a significant need for volunteer schedulers this tax season. Schedulers assist residents by answering phone calls and scheduling appointments through an online scheduling system. These roles do not involve tax preparation.

All VITA volunteers receive free training and can serve in Rockville, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg or Wheaton. Hours and locations are flexible. High school students may also earn Student Service Learning (SSL) hours by volunteering as greeters or schedulers.

Given Montgomery County's diversity, multilingual volunteers are highly encouraged to apply, with a particular need for those fluent in Spanish.

Two virtual information sessions for prospective volunteers will be held from 11 a.m.-noon and 6-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13. The sessions will provide an overview of the program and volunteer opportunities. To attend, complete the volunteer registration form.

For more information about volunteering, click here, call 240-777-1123 or email VITA staff.

The Community Action Agency is part of the County's Department of Health and Human Services.

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Release ID: 24-473
Media Contact: Jennifer Garfinkel 240-962-1506
Categories: Tax

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