In New York, tax prep fees can cost an average of $150 to $250. For someone who lives paycheck to paycheck, every refund matters. Volunteers help make sure every dollar counts.
In response to COVID-19, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers:
- On-demand info sessions and training material for volunteers
- Both virtual and socially distanced in-person tax shift options
Get Involved
1. Attend an (optional) Tax Prep Info Session
New to the program? Complete an on-demand info session to learn more.
2. Review Training Resources
These on-demand resources are designed to help you prepare for the exam.
3. Complete IRS Certification (required)
Once ready, take your certification exam (see our instruction guide). You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to pass. You will have two chances to pass the exams.
- 2021 Volunteer Standards of Conduct
- 2021 Intake/Interview and Quality Review AND
- 2021 Basic OR 2021 Advance Exam
Important: When you successfully complete the exam, download your certification PDFs and stay tuned for an email that includes a form where you will be able to submit your certification to New York Cares. You will be required to present these documents again.
4. Sign Up for a Tax Shift
If you'd like to be the first to know about Tax Prep in 2022, please sign up for our General Interest campaign. We'll be sending out more info soon!
Need help preparing your taxes? Learn more about eligibility and resources.
