Become a volunteer

Below are the steps to be part of Baruch VITA. Refer to Volunteers ⇒ Registered ⇒ Training from the top navigation bar for exact dates and more details on the process.

Step 1: Application (September to December)

• Fill out the Application Form
• Receive a confirmation email within 10 days
• Memorize your 4-digit Volunteer ID
• Attend "Tax 101" Mini-Training (recommended)

Step 2: Screening (December)

• Purchase the Baruch VITA Textbook in mid-December or print your own copy
• Submit the take-home, online Pre-Test by December 30 (You have 2 attempts)

  Reached the passing grade and cut-off? Congratulations! See you in January training. Otherwise, please try again next year.

Step 3: Training (January)

• Attend 2 days of Federal & NY State Tax training over 2 consecutive weekends
• Attend 1 day of International Tax (optional)
• Take the in-class Post-Test

  Reached the passing grade? Congratulations! See you on-site during the tax season. Otherwise, please try again next year.

Step 4: Volunteering (February to mid-April)

• Submit preferred volunteer locations & hours
• Prepare at least 45 points worth of tax returns (about 15 returns on average) in at least 3 hours per week (flexible)

  Fulfilled all the requirements? Congratulations! You are now an IRS-certified Volunteer.

Step 5: Recognition (May)

• Participate in the annual Recognition Ceremony & Awards Dinner
• Receive IRS certificates, letters validating community service hours, and letters of recommendation

Next Year

• Take the VITA experience further: apply for one of the many leadership positions!