Registered Tax Return Preparer Rules Overturned

[mwcpa]

VITA is a completely different program from hobby paid preparers...http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Free-Tax-Return-Preparation-for-You-by-Volunteers.

"The VITA Program generally offers free tax help to people who make $51,000 or less and need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals in local communities. They can inform taxpayers about special tax credits for which they may qualify such as Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled. VITA sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations."

VITA staff are trained and overseen by the IRS.... and only assist those with relatively simple matters (noted above).... I am a strong advocate of the VITA program.... I would much rather see someone who qualifies for the program go there instead of some of the charlatans out there who peddles refunds and you can get away with this.

There are also "free" programs for seniors (TCE).

Many state and local govenemtns offer the same.  In addition, a few CPA societies (NYS in particular) offer "free" call in days to help people.  I am sure some state bars do it to.

I am a big advocate of these 'volunteer' programs, not everyone can afford or needs a paid preparer, but a lot need quality assistance from a trained individual.