VOLUNTEER CERTIFIED SCREENER
Roles:
Provide support to the Volunteer Tax Assistors
who volunteer at a Volunteer Return Preparation site. Performs free screening
for all taxpayers that are requesting assistance at the site to identify what
type of return and tax schedules each customer will need assistance with and to
ensure the taxpayer has the necessary information required to complete his/her
return. The screener must be certified at the appropriate levels for providing
assistance (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Military, etc.), if they will assist
taxpayers with any tax law topics. This screener can also determine the
certification levels required for preparing each tax return based on the
taxpayers income level and all supporting documents. The screener can also check
the returns to make sure that the Site Identification Number is entered
correctly in the Paid Preparer's Section of the tax form.
Tasks:
Develop a log or check sheet to sign in customers needing assistance.
Greet all taxpayers visiting the site to create a pleasant atmosphere.
If
certified, assist taxpayers with tax law questions.
Perform free screening
process of all taxpayers.
Survey customers to determine the type of
assistance they will be needing and the tax forms that will be required to
complete their tax return.
Ensure the taxpayer has brought the necessary
information (e.g. W-2, 1099's, last year's return) from which a tax return can
be completed.
Complete taxpayer information sheet for Volunteer Preparer's
reference.
If certified, sign in taxpayer and indicate the level of
complexity based on the taxpayers income level and/or supporting documents.
Monitor site traffic to ensure that sufficient time is allowed for all taxpayers
being checked in at the site to receive assistance.
Refer customers with
complex returns to a tax practitioner. However, volunteers should never refer
customers to a specific practitioner or firm.
Maintain confidentiality of
customer information.
Provide general assistance to site patrons.
Assist
Volunteer Tax Assistors as needed.
Adhere to Title VI by not denying service
to anyone based on race, color, sex, age, national origin or disability.
Skills:
If applicable, certified at the appropriate
tax law levels for providing assistance (Form 1040, Form 1040A and Form 1040EZ).
Tax training and certification will be provided as needed.
Willingness to
share time, skills, and interest - e.g., volunteer a minimum of 2 to 4 hours per
week on the Volunteer Tax Program from approximately Mid-January through April
15.
Ability to deal with the public in a helpful and supportive manner.
Pride in performing tasks completely and accurately.
Friendly, dependable and
flexible.
