@lssvitaprogram

Lutheran Social Services of New York's LSS Vita Program provides IRS-certified tax preparation services for households earning under $80,000 annually. The program operates entirely virtually, processing both federal and New York state returns through secure online document submission. Phone consultations in English and Spanish connect clients with volunteer preparers before electronic filing. The program focuses on three key tax benefits: the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and NYC Child Care Tax Credit. LSS Vita's volunteer preparers receive comprehensive IRS certification training to navigate these specific credits. The service maintains strict security protocols for document handling and submission through IRS-approved channels. LSS Vita combines direct tax assistance with structured volunteer development programs to build local tax preparation capacity. The program creates pathways for tax professionals to serve eligible households while expanding their expertise. Volunteers gain hands-on experience with federal and state tax regulations while supporting New York communities.