Hello Everyone,
Thank you for your interest in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) at UCI. We’re reaching out to you about the upcoming tax law training sessions, which are essential for your journey to becoming an IRS-certified volunteer tax preparer.
Purpose of Training
The sessions aim to equip you with the necessary tax knowledge and skills to confidently prepare taxes for others. Per IRS requirements, all VITA volunteers must pass the required volunteer certification test. The training aims to not only teach tax knowledge but also to ensure you’re well-prepared for the certification exams. The training is provided for free.
Training Option
Online Training via Zoom
Provided by: AIM-IRS
Sessions include 11 classes, with recordings available for Classes 1-7.
Dates (9:00 am – 4:00 pm):
- (Self-study YouTube recordings for Class 2-3. Class 1 is optional)
- Saturday, Dec 07: Classes 4-6 (Part I)
- Saturday, Dec 14: Classes 6 (Part II) – 8
- Saturday, Dec 28: Q&A / Basic Test Review (Test answers must be emailed to Diane or Kathy by Thurs. 12/26 for admittance to this ZOOM review session)
- Saturday, Jan 04: Classes 9 and 11
- Saturday, Jan 11: Classes 10 and 11
- Saturday, Jan 18: Q&A / Advanced Test Review
Refer to the attached PDFs for detailed information and Zoom link. There is no need to register (only register if you plan to attend in person); simply join via the provided Zoom link at the scheduled times. Recordings are uploaded to YouTube and links are available in their Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Dwp-nno9EFCQBujQVF28FzMHgweNFbqf.
Certification Levels and Exams
After training, you’ll take certification tests for various levels—Basic, Advanced, Foreign Student, etc. You’re authorized to prepare tax returns that correspond with your certification level. At a minimum, UCI VITA volunteers must attain Basic certification, along with passing the Volunteer Standards of Conduct and Intake/Interview and Quality Review exams. These are open-book, non-timed, and require an 80% passing score. Only two attempts are allowed, so please attempt the tests after you have watched the online training. You will be provided with more information about the test during the training sessions.
Returning Volunteers
Welcome back! All VITA volunteers are required to take certification tests each year, even if they have previously earned their certification. We recommend reviewing the training videos to refresh your knowledge and stay updated on any changes in tax law. The attached PDF also has information about refresher training. You can access the certification tests at https://linklearncertification.com/.
Thank you for joining us in making a meaningful impact. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Best regards,
VITA at UCI