Needs From: United Way of Acadiana

Become a certified VITA Volunteer - help your community file their simple tax returns while maximizing the amount of money they get back for the 2026 tax year!

By taking part in this volunteer opportunity, you'll be ensuring that Acadiana community members get their maximum tax refund - allowing them to put those dollars back into the community! Some families depend on their tax returns to be able to afford important items they would otherwise not be able to purchase. Your time and dedication will be a huge benefit to community members who find filing their taxes confusing, or those who are unable to file them through traditional means. Last year, our VITA volunteers processed over 2,500 simple tax returns with a 97% accuracy rate! The total amount of dollars refunded was over 1.5 million.

To be eligible to be a VITA Volunteer, you will need to sign an agreement committing to 12 hours of training for basic taxes or 16 hours for advanced taxes, plus a minimum of 4 dedicated days spread out over 13 weeks (32 volunteer hours) to process and file tax returns. After the training, you must pass 2 exams with an 80% or higher. Once you successfully complete these things, you'll be certified to help file simple tax returns at various VITA locations across Acadiana! The hours are flexible, and there will be night and weekend opportunities. This is great experience to add to your resume, especially if you're interested in a related career field!

Opportunity SnapshotCommitment:32 hour minimum of tax preparation (spread out in 4 or more shifts over 13 weeks)You must pass 2 exams (testing materials provided)Adhere to guidelines set out in VITA Volunteer Handbook16 hours of training (spread out over 2 days - lunch will be provided!)Impact:Your time helps put dollars back into the communityYou'll gain a new skillYou'll be able to alleviate stress for people who are unable to file their tax returns through traditional meansYour time helps community members get the maximum refund they can