Program Overview

Join the WoodGreen Tax Clinic for an exciting and fulfilling volunteer experience, where you can make a meaningful impact by preparing tax returns for individuals and families who are living on a low income.

WoodGreen’s Financial Empowerment Program aims to alleviate and assist individuals in transitioning out of poverty by utilizing innovative approaches to address financial challenges. In partnership with the Canada Revenue Agency, the Financial Empowerment program offers a valuable opportunity to volunteer in our Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP). We serve thousands of clients annually, providing professional, free tax filing services to marginalized populations.

As a volunteer, you’ll engage with clients, prepare their tax returns, and assess their eligibility for additional benefits. We provide comprehensive training, including interactive online sessions and on-the-job mentoring, ensuring you have the necessary skills and resources to excel in your role. We are proud to offer both virtual and in-person tax preparation options, enabling us to continue serving our clients effectively.

Position Summary

Applications are currently being accepted for the upcoming tax season. You will be contacted in November to schedule an interview.

As a tax preparer volunteer with the WoodGreen Tax Clinic, you will:

• Participate in income tax training offered by WoodGreen as well as trainings offered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
• Help clients submit their tax returns using UFile software.
• Provide explanations of tax return results to clients and answer tax related questions.
• Follow policies set by the CRA and WoodGreen Community Services
• Provide high-quality support and customer service to a diverse group of clients.
• When needed, use interpretation services for clients who have limited English-speaking skills.
• Have an opportunity to connect with a large community of volunteers.

Skills Required

• Volunteers work with people from diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including recent immigrants, refugees, and those who are experiencing crisis. High levels of respect and empathy are required.
• Strong conversation and interview skills, must have a minimum Level 6 Canadian Language Benchmark
• Excellent computer and technology skills, including proficiency in multiple programs and instant messaging
• Familiarity with Microsoft Teams software and/or UFile tax software is an asset
• Basic knowledge of tax documents and Canadian tax policies is an asset
• Experience filing taxes in Canada is an asset

Other Requirements

• Must have a valid Social Insurance Number which cannot expire any time during the year you volunteer
• Must have filed a 2023 tax return
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must apply for and have an active EFILE number and RepID
• Must provide a clear Vulnerable Sector Screening
• Must provide 2 references
• If volunteering remotely must have:
  • a computer with Windows operating system and the ability to download UFile software
  • a private space to speak with clients over the phone
  • reliable internet

Commitment

Volunteers are an integral part of the income tax clinic. Your gift of time, talent and energy is crucial to the success of the organization. We are counting on you to complete the following:

• Mandatory 10-hour training (combination of self-directed online training & live training in-person) held in late January/early February.
• Commit to volunteering a minimum of two 3-hour shifts a week, either in-person or virtually, for the duration of tax season (March to end of May 2025). We ask volunteers to adhere to a schedule of the same shift each week for the full duration of tax season.

Locations

• 815 Danforth Avenue
• 1533 Victoria Park
• 2930 Lakeshore Blvd W