| For those individuals that wish to become an income | | | | involved in this type of program, an appointment should |
| tax preparer, there are courses that can be taken. | | | | be made due to the demand of these free services. |
| The IRS has a Volunteer Income Tax Assistant | | | | One word of warning if a service like this or any other |
| Program where area volunteers can be trained to help | | | | is used whether it is a free service or paid for, the tax |
| those in their community. A good example of this type | | | | payer is responsible for their return, immaterial of who |
| of volunteer work comes from the Elms College in | | | | prepares it for them. There are those like H&R Block |
| western Massachusetts. | | | | that will help represent you against the IRS if any |
| For the last 5 years, Elms College students in this area | | | | mistake is found. But all penalties and fines will be paid |
| go through training with the IRS. Upon completion of | | | | by the tax payer, no matter who prepared the tax |
| the training, there are examinations that have to be | | | | forms. For this reason, it is advisable to review your |
| passed. There are two different levels, the basic exam | | | | tax forms before submitting them to the IRS after an |
| and the intermediate exam. This year, 19 students | | | | income tax preparer is finished with your return. |
| passed both exams and are helping the citizens in their | | | | Of course, the above is not legal or accounting advice |
| area with their returns. | | | | -- it is for informational purposes only. Before making |
| This year with 19 students, about 30 to 40 tax returns | | | | any decisions regarding legal or tax matters, it is vital |
| are prepared during each 5 hour session. Just like with | | | | that you consult a licensed professional lawyer or tax |
| these volunteers, if there is a group in your area | | | | accountant. |