UNITED WAY KICKS OFF VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) PROGRAM

United Way of South Texas is seeking IRS-certified volunteers for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, which provides free income tax preparation services to eligible individuals and families with household incomes of $67,000 or less.

About the role

Volunteers will assist families across Hidalgo and Starr counties at fourteen service locations, including libraries, community centers, schools, and non-profit sites. In 2025, over 150 volunteers helped 3,388 households secure more than $5.1 million in refunds and saved an estimated $1,016,400 in preparation fees.

Responsibilities

• Prepare federal and state income tax returns for eligible clients at no cost.
• Provide accurate, high-quality tax assistance to individuals and families with household incomes of $67,000 or less.
• Assist clients in claiming eligible tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC).
• Work at one of fourteen VITA sites between January 26 and April 11, 2026.
• Follow IRS guidelines and maintain certification standards.

Requirements

• Complete IRS certification training (provided by United Way of South Texas).
• Commit to volunteering at least one shift per week during the 13-week tax season.
• Strong attention to detail and comfort working with numbers.
• Ability to maintain client confidentiality and adhere to IRS privacy policies.
• Friendly, patient, and able to explain tax concepts in simple terms.

Benefits

• Make a direct impact by helping families secure refunds and avoid costly preparation fees.
• Gain valuable tax preparation experience and IRS certification.
• Work alongside a team of dedicated volunteers and AmeriCorps NCCC members.
• Contribute to a program that strengthens financial stability in the Rio Grande Valley.

Schedule

Volunteers are needed from January 26 to April 11, 2026. Shifts are flexible and available at multiple locations across Hidalgo and Starr counties.