• Tax site volunteers work alongside site managers and veteran volunteers that are available to answer questions. All tax returns are checked by a quality review expert, who can provide feedback.
• Tax representatives work closely with our tax clinic manager, who provides guidance and assistance via phone, email or office visits.
• Office volunteers work directly with staff members, who are available to provide assistance.

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What previous experience is required for volunteers?

For most of our volunteer opportunities, no experience is needed! The most important traits in a volunteer are dedication, follow-through and an enthusiasm for working with a variety of people. Please see position descriptions for any specific requirements.

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Is training available for volunteers?

Volunteer training is designed to make our opportunities accessible for all volunteers regardless of experience. All training is provided. Requirements vary by position; see our training page for details for specific roles.

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Which tax site is best for me?

Most volunteers select a site that is conveniently located with hours that match their schedule. To search by zip code, use the search box in the top right section of any page of our website.

If you have flexible availability, we generally have a stronger need for weeknight volunteers. In Chicagoland, our need is greatest outside of the Loop.

The Volunteer Engagement department is happy to answer questions about selecting a site via email or at (312) 630-0288.

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What if I make a mistake on someone’s tax return? 

Each tax return is reviewed on site by a quality review expert with extensive tax training, so most mistakes are corrected before submitting the return to the IRS.

If an error sneaks through the review process, volunteers that have registered with CEP through our online signup process and passed the IRS certification exam for the current tax year cannot be held legally responsible for the error and are covered under our volunteer liability insurance. Additionally, CEP’s tax clinic can help correct any errors that are discovered on tax returns prepared at CEP tax sites.

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How does CEP screen clients? 

Clients must meet income guidelines to be eligible for individual programs:

• Tax Help: Individual income under $25,000 or family income under $50,000
• Tax Clinic: Income under 250% of the poverty line 

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Can I receive Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits for volunteering?

The Center for Economic Progress is not authorized to issue CPE credits for hours spent volunteering. We are authorized to give credits only for hours spent in training (see below for requirements). No credits will be issued for time spent volunteering.

The Center for Economic Progress is authorized to provide CPE credits for CPAs only. Due to the recent changes to Treasury Department Circular 230, the Center for Economic Progress is not able to offer continuing education credits to Enrolled Agents and Registered Tax Return Preparers at this time. We hope EAs and RTRPs will still join our program to help low-income families access valuable tax credits.

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