Campaign for Working Families

Why offer free tax preparation? The Campaign is part of a national movement to provide tax services that boost the number of filers claiming EITC and protect taxpayers from predatory products and services often associated with tax preparation.

What is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)? For more than 30 years, the EITC has reduced the annual tax burden for low-income working families and emerged as America's largest and most effective anti-poverty program.

How many people in Philadelphia are eligible for the EITC do not file for it? In Philadelphia, an estimated 39,000 eligible households do not file EITC claims, leaving approximately $66.3 million in unclaimed credits.

Why should I volunteer with the Campaign? We make it easy for you to help working families in Philadelphia. Through one-on-one interactions with families at the tax sites, you can bring $60,000 annually in refunds to Philadelphia families and can count, in dollars, the value of time donated for the families served.

What does a Resource Builder do? Resource Builder volunteers impact families by screening for eligibility for important public benefits such as food stamps, heating assistance and medical assistance. In addition, you connect families to fairly priced financial products and savings opportunities to help families save money and build assets. As a Resource Builder you can help bring more money and services into a household each month!

What did this year's volunteers find most satisfying about their volunteer experience? Here are a few responses:

"Seeing the peace of mind of customers who knew their taxes were filed correctly and they would be keeping as much of their hard earned money as possible."

"Helping others. It's true that helping others gives you a feeling of satisfaction."

"Seeing the same faces from previous years, customers and volunteers, and the reaction of families who received a refund."

What is the time commitment? We ask that volunteers commit roughly 24 hours, or six shifts, between January and April. Before the season starts volunteers are required to attend 7 to 15 hours of training.

Is any experience required? No previous experience is necessary, although basic computer skills are essential for all positions except Greeters. For all volunteer positions, we will train you in everything you need to know including the computer software used to electronically file returns and benefits applications.

What support will I have as a volunteer at your tax site? Each tax site is staffed by managers and experienced volunteers who will support you as you learn the processes at the tax sites. Throughout the tax season you will always be surrounded by other volunteers and experienced staff to answer questions and support you as needed.

What if I make a mistake on someone's tax return? Don't worry, we have systems to ensure that every return is prepared correctly. After you complete your return, the site manager or designated quality reviewer will double check your work. In the unlikely case that a mistake is not caught, as a trained and certified volunteer you are not held legally liable.

What if I am not interested in preparing taxes, is there another way I can be a part of the Campaign? Although the bulk of our volunteers are needed to prepare tax returns, we also need volunteers to be Resource Builders and Greeters. Click here to see a complete description of the roles and necessary training. You can also support our work by making a donation to The Campaign. Click here to donate now.

What training is necessary? Each role at the tax site requires different training. Click here to see a complete description of the roles and necessary training. Sign-up for training now!

Where will I be volunteering? The Campaign operates 11 tax sites in South Philadelphia, West and SouthWest Philadelphia, North Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Center City and Germantown. The sites are housed in various community organizations, churches and community centers. When you register you will chose your preferred site. We appreciate your flexibility in helping to staff all of our sites.

How do I sign up? Click here to register to volunteer.

Still have questions?  Send us a message!