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Become a Volunteer
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Work with Nonprofits that Help Minnesotans File Their Tax Returns
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You can volunteer at free tax preparation sites across Minnesota run by Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE), managed by AARP Foundation Tax-Aide.
VITA and TCE programs provide free tax assistance to people in your community who have disabilities, are low-to-moderate income earners, have limited English-speaking abilities, and are 60 or older.
You do not need tax experience to volunteer. Experts at the tax sites provide training and resources. Learn new skills, help your community, and benefit from free tax law training, flexible volunteer hours, and continuing education credits for professionals.
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Opportunities available from January 1 to April 15 include:
- Greeter – Welcome everyone visiting the site to create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. Determine the type of assistance taxpayers need and confirm they have the necessary documents to complete their tax returns.
- Interpreter – Provide free language interpreter services to taxpayers who are not fluent in English. Basic tax knowledge is helpful but is not required for this position. Must be fluent in English and another language such as Spanish, Hmong, Somali, Amharic, or Oromo.
- Computer Specialist – Help volunteers and taxpayers navigate tax software. Must have a working knowledge of personal computers, software, and communications systems.
- Marketing Specialist– Help with volunteer recruitment and outreach to promote tax preparation services. Create marketing materials.
Some volunteer opportunities require training and IRS open-book certification tests:
- Site Coordinator – Manage the activities of the tax site. Supervise, support, and schedule volunteers. Ensure the tax site has adequate supplies and equipment. Must pass the Site Coordinator certification test.
- Tax Preparer – Complete federal and state income tax returns using tax software. Strong communication skills required to interview and respond to tax questions. Computer proficiency and knowledge of basic income tax preparation is helpful. Must pass the tax law certification test.
- Quality Reviewer – Ensure tax returns are correct and free of errors. Experience in tax preparation is required. Accurately communicate detailed tax knowledge and instructions. Must pass the tax law certification test.
- Instructor – Train volunteers to prepare and file federal and state income tax returns. Instructors teach classes online or in person. Must pass the tax law certification test.
Referrals to Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and AARP Foundation Tax-Aide programs are currently paused and will resume in mid-September. Please check back then for updated information.
VITA and TCE programs are approved to provide IRS credits for:
- Enrolled Agent (EA)
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- Non-credentialed tax return preparer participating in the IRS Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP)
Attorneys and Certified Public Accountants may also qualify for CE credits depending on their state licensing requirements or National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA).
For details on earning CE credits see IRS Fact Sheet Continuing Education Credits and work directly with your site coordinator.
We provide training on Minnesota tax topics and new tax law changes. Visit VITA-TCE Training 2025-2026 to view the training videos (under When can I attend training?).
