For over 20 years, the University of Montana has served Missoula as a Volunteer Tax Income Assistance (VITA) site, offering free tax filing to eligible community members. VITA is an IRS led program offering free tax return preparation to qualifying individuals: including those who make less than $60,000 annually, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency.  The program is a massive success, with appointments often filling up within days of their opening.

This spring, the IRC is Missoula is pleased to join the University as a second VITA site, allowing our organization to better meet the demand for these services in the community. Additionally, through interpretation services, the IRC hopes that the VITA program becomes increasingly accessible to refugees and immigrants throughout Missoula. We know how daunting taxes can be, especially for those who are new to the United States! The IRC in Missoula received a grant through the International Rescue Committee Headquarters making this program possible for 2024. 

The IRC in Missoula aims to file at least 200 returns this season. To meet this goal, our organization is in the process of hiring a VITA site coordinator and recruiting approximately 30 volunteers. IRC VITA volunteers can serve as tax screeners, preparers, and quality reviewers. Becoming a volunteer involves free IRS training and certification and a brief IRC orientation. Volunteers can serve a flexible schedule, offering between 3-15 hours a week, with evening and weekend volunteering shifts available! 

Training will begin in December, with tax appointments taking place between January and April, in-person at the IRC in Missoula office.  

We are proud to be offering these services to the Missoula community this spring, and we need your help to make it a success! Email [email protected] to learn more. You can also get started today by signing up for an upcoming volunteer interest session here.