Officials with the Cass County/ISU Extension Office report the Extension is looking for persons to work with residents through the VITA Program. For several years, ISU Extension in Cass County has served as a host site for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. Now, organizers are looking for local volunteers to keep the program going strong. VITA is an IRS-sponsored program that certifies community volunteers to prepare and e-file basic tax returns at no cost for low to moderate income individuals and families.

Volunteers are needed in Cass County to prepare 2014 taxes and should have a basic understanding of income tax laws, an interest in helping others, and basic computer skills.

VITA volunteers are provided free training, self study materials, and software necessary to prepare basic income tax returns including Forms 1040EZ, 1040A, and 1040. Taxpayers schedule appointments and taxes are prepared by the volunteers at a central location with equipment provided. Volunteers must complete a certification exam and the IRS waives liability for volunteers if they prepare returns within the scope of their certification.

To find out more about the VITA program contact Kate Olson at the Cass County Extension Office at 712-243-1132 or keolson@iastate.edu. Interested persons will need to complete a one page application and background screening.

The VITA program provides free tax preparation to low and moderate income families so they can claim the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Care Tax Credits. In Cass County, the program is coordinated by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach with funding and support from the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Human Services, and Iowans for Social and Economic Development (ISED).