Volunteers ‘VITA-ly’ important at tax center Published Aug. 3, 2007 By Melissa Barlow 52nd Fighter Wing Legal Office/Tax Center SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Volunteers 'VITA-ly' important at tax center By Melissa Barlow 52nd Fighter Wing Legal Office/Tax Center While tax season may seem eons away to most taxpayers, the Spangdahlem Tax Center is preparing for the rush that will inevitably begin at the end of January. One of the most vital resources to a successful Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is the volunteer tax preparers. The Spangdahlem tax center would not be able to offer the year-round tax assistance that it does without the tremendous service that these volunteers provide. So what exactly is the VITA program? VITA provides free tax preparation services for active duty military, Department of Defense, civilians, contractors, retirees and family members who are living in the Spangdahlem community. "The tax filer can have their tax returns prepared by an Internal Revenue Service certified volunteer who lives and works here at Spangdahlem, maybe even somebody in their workplace," said Staff Sergeant Brian Meeker, a former Spangdahlem tax center NCOIC states. The VITAs also help the wing by saving its members hundreds of thousands of dollars annually in tax preparation fees". However, this would not have been possible if not for the help of several volunteers who take the time to help the community. A perk to being a volunteer is the flexibility that comes with the tax preparation software being Internet-based. This innovation allows the preparer to file tax forms from anywhere; the tax center, the workplace or even at home. This provides alternatives to the standard tax preparation location and hours, allowing those individuals who want to volunteer more options. Not only does the tax center provide its volunteers with the opportunity to help their community, it also provides them with valuable job experience. "The volunteers get valuable training that they can use both professionally and personally," Sergeant Meeker. The IRS visits Spangdahlem AB Jan. 7 - 11, 2008 to train and certify those individuals interested in becoming a tax preparer. VITA representatives come from all segments of the Spangdahlem community, active duty, civilian employee and family members, can become a tax preparer. Furthermore, the Red Cross reimburses volunteers for childcare expenses while you volunteer. For more information about becoming a certified VITA tax preparer, contact Melissa Barlow at 452-1040, visit the tax center located in building 125 or via e-mail, melissa.barlow@spangdahlem.af.mil.