IRS Seeks Volunteers for 2025 Tax Season

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is recruiting volunteers nationwide to support the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program. Both initiatives have helped prepare millions of free tax returns each year, providing vital support to low-income households and underserved communities.

According to the IRS, VITA and TCE sites primarily serve Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) eligible families, senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, and taxpayers with limited English proficiency by offering free tax preparation and counseling services.

Volunteer eligibility is broad, ranging from high school students to retirees. No prior tax knowledge is required, as the IRS provides free specialized training. Volunteers can choose flexible schedules, including evenings and weekends, and opportunities are available both in-person and virtually nationwide.

In addition to tax preparation, a variety of volunteer roles are offered, including client intake, outreach, and IT support, allowing individuals to contribute according to their skills and interests.

Tax professionals can also benefit from the program by earning Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. The IRS has approved CPE credit opportunities for Enrolled Agents (EAs), non-credentialed tax preparers, and California Tax Education Council (CTEC)/CRTP registered preparers.

Interested individuals can register through IRS.gov/volunteers or via the official VITA/TCE Volunteer Sign-Up portal. Within approximately two weeks, applicants will receive a list of nearby volunteer sites and an invitation to a virtual orientation.

Those who sign up between October and January will be able to serve during the upcoming tax filing season, while applicants after January will be considered for the following season.