Tax Year 2006 Volunteer Training Introduction & Administrative Guidelines

Administrative Matters Volunteer Protection Act Standards of Conduct Privacy and Confidentiality Program Integrity Volunteer Site Credentials

Standards of Conduct Treat taxpayers’ professionally Protect and use equipment & supplies (as prescribed) Do not accept payment Do not solicit funds

Administrative Matters Quality Review Process Site Identification Number Course Evaluation Scope of the VITA/TCE programs Help from the IRS

Help From the IRS E-File software – TaxWise® Publications 4012 & 17 Intake and Interview Sheet Volunteer Hotline & Quality Alerts Instruction Booklets & Worksheets Equipment & Supplies

VITA/TCE Course Objectives Determine if the taxpayer need/should file a return Accurately complete and file returns (including worksheets and schedules) within the scope of the VITA/TCE Accurately respond to taxpayer inquiries Use the resources to find technical and non- technical answers Use available resource to solicit “appropriate” information from taxpayers Test and become a certified return preparer

Course Introduction The VITA/TCE Courses 1. Basic 2. Intermediate 3. Advanced 4. Military 5. International

Lesson Features Objectives Sidebars – Alerts & Pitfalls Interview Tips 2006 Forms – Proof Copies Available Problems, Exercises, and Exhibits Summing Up the Lesson

Volunteer Testing & Certification “Assist only with returns, supporting schedules, and forms in the scope of your training and certification.”

Screening & Probing Interviews

Five Step Interview Process Put the Taxpayer at ease Use Active Listening Explain the Return Prep Process Engage around the Intake Sheet Be alert to next steps – - Quality Review, Filing, Records, etc.

Screening & Probing Interview FAQs of Taxpayers Help from the IRS On-Site Resources

Summary Your rights and responsibilities Taxpayers’ rights & responsibilities Review quality Don’t Assume – “Always interview the taxpayer” A quality return