Michigan Treasurer Seeks Tax Preparation Volunteers
The state is recruiting volunteers to help low- and moderate-income residents with free tax filing services.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Taxes
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Michigan state officials are calling for volunteers to join free tax preparation programs ahead of the upcoming season. These initiatives assist seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low- to moderate-income households with their filing needs.
Why it matters
The recruitment effort aims to address a critical shortfall where the demand for tax assistance services currently exceeds the number of available volunteers. Strengthening this volunteer base ensures that more residents can access professional filing help at no cost.
During the 2026 filing season, these programs helped 90,000 households save $28.5 million in preparation fees and claim $153.8 million in total refunds. The operational model has successfully provided services for more than 50 years.
The players
Michigan State Treasurer
The official who oversees the state's financial administration and is actively encouraging public participation in tax assistance programs.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
A national organization that provides free tax help to anyone, with a specific focus on those 50 and older or those who have low-to-moderate income.
The details
Prospective volunteers can register through the Volunteer Interest Form online to undergo IRS certification training, which is available in person or virtually. These services are provided through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, Tax Counseling for the Elderly, and AARP Foundation Tax-Aide programs.
Timeline
Volunteers assisted 90,000 Michigan households during the 2026 filing season.
Market Dynamics
The Michigan recruitment drive extends the national reach of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program by expanding local staffing capacity. This effort scales community-based financial services to match the increasing demand for cost-free professional tax preparation.
Residents seeking to reduce filing costs or access professional help can secure assistance by utilizing these state-supported programs. Conversely, interested volunteers can impact local household budgets by providing essential financial support during the tax season.
The takeaway
Volunteering for these programs provides essential support for neighbors struggling with tax preparation fees. Interested individuals can use this opportunity to gain IRS certification while helping others navigate complex tax filings.
Further reading
For additional information on state tax filing resources, visit Michigan Taxes.
More information
To register as a volunteer or find support services, visit the volunteer interest and assistance signup portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Mining Journal.
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