Free Tax Preparation Training for the VITA program is given by the IRS as well as various partner organizations.  In Santa Clara County, IRS sponsored classroom training is offered at the IRS Building in San Jose.  First time preparers are strongly urged to attend the classroom sessions to learn the details of tax law.   Returning preparers may find it more convenient to do self study or online study at the IRS Link & Learn site.

Training and certification requirements for preparing returns through VITA are different from those for paid tax preparation.  If you are an experienced paid tax preparer, you may not need the training, but still need to be VITA certified, by taking a multiple choice open book test.

The minimum requirement to volunteer as a Tax Preparation Volunteer in VITA is satisfactory completion of an open book text related to tax law. Free Tax preparation training is offered to help pass this exam.  Additional training is provided to enhance the skill levels of volunteers.  All tax preparers are urged to take the TaxWise E-File training if they have not already done so, since a large proportion of tax returns are prepared on the computer.

Tax Law Training