VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance​) Preparation and Planning Meeting for 2026

In-Service ID: 54123

In-Service Description: The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is one of the few Extension initiatives where we can clearly demonstrate monetary impact in our communities. By helping families save on tax preparation fees and secure the refunds and credits they deserve, we can report real dollars returned to households — a powerful way to show Extension’s value. Even more, VITA serves as an avenue for people to learn about Extension. When clients come in for tax help, they also discover our other programs. It’s a chance to reach new audiences and strengthen Extension’s visibility in the community. This session will introduce educators to the VITA Intake Model, which keeps your role simple and impactful. Educators do not prepare taxes. Instead, you guide clients through the intake process — gathering their personal information and documents, then securely uploading them to an online folder where IRS-certified tax preparers complete the return remotely. This model ensures you can participate without needing tax expertise. We’ll cover how to get started, manage site logistics, and work with community partners. Tax preparers will also join the session to share how we can collaborate and answer your questions.

In-Service Contact: Wang, Mengya (mengya.wang@okstate.edu)

In-Service Proxy:

In-Service Status: OPEN

In-Service Program Area(s):

In-Service Issue Team(s):

Educator End-Clients:

In-Service Instructors: Mengya Wang

First Objective: Learn how the Intake Model works and what Extension educators are (and are not) responsible for.

Second Objective: Gain practical tips for starting a local VITA intake site.

Third Objective:

Competencies:
Extension: Program Planning and Development

Intended Extension Educators: Extension Educators who are interested in offering tax assistance programming in their counties

Method of Delivery: Webinar (Zoom or other meeting software)

Enrollment Deadline: 28-Sep-2025

Registration Fee: $0.00

Registration Fee Covers:

Travel Funds Available:

Appropriate Dress: Professional Business