What is Form 13615?
Form 13615, the Volunteer Standards of Conduct Agreement, is essential for volunteers in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. This document ensures that volunteers adhere to strict ethical guidelines, fostering public trust. By signing the form, volunteers agree not to accept payments, avoid preparing false tax returns, and treat taxpayers with professionalism. This commitment is vital for delivering accurate and high-quality tax return preparation services, maintaining the integrity of the programs.
What is Form 13615 used for?
Form 13615 is essential for VITA/TCE volunteers to ensure they follow ethical guidelines. Here’s what you need to know:
- Ethical Conduct: Volunteers agree to uphold high ethical standards and adhere to Quality Site Requirements (QSR).
- Certification: A passing score of 80% or more is required on a certification test.
- Verification: Volunteers must sign the form, which is then verified by a partner or site coordinator with photo ID.
- Compliance: This helps maintain public trust and ensures quality service in tax preparation.
How to fill out Form 13615?
- 1
Complete the Volunteer Standards of Conduct certification using IRS electronic tests or Form 6744.
- 2
Pass certification tests with a score of 80% or higher.
- 3
Verify your identity and address with a government-issued photo ID.
- 4
Confirm certifications with your coordinator, sponsoring partner, instructor, or IRS contact.
- 5
Update your My Account page in LLT with your valid name and address.
- 6
Ensure all certifications are noted on Form 13615 before signing.
Who is required to fill out Form 13615?
All volunteers in the VITA/TCE programs—including return preparers, quality reviewers, coordinators, client facilitators, and greeters—must complete Form 13615, Volunteer Standards of Conduct Agreement. This ensures adherence to ethical standards and quality service for taxpayers.
After form completion, the Site Coordinator or IRS contact verifies the volunteer's identity and training certification using a government-issued photo ID. The form is then signed by the approving official, confirming compliance with program standards.
When is Form 13615 not required?
Form 13615 is not required for individuals who do not participate in the VITA/TCE programs, including non-volunteers and those outside tax return preparation roles. Additionally, those who have completed the necessary certifications and received verification from the sponsoring partner or IRS contact do not need to submit this form.
When is Form 13615 due?
The deadline for Form 13615, Volunteer Standards of Conduct Agreement, is annual. New VITA/TCE volunteers must submit it before starting, while returning volunteers need to provide an updated form each year. Any minor changes in personal or certification details also require submission of this form.
How to get a blank Form 13615?
To get a blank Form 13615, simply visit our website. The IRS issues this form for VITA/TCE programs. We have a blank version ready for you in our editor, so there's no need to download a template from elsewhere. Remember, our platform helps with filling and downloading forms, but not filing them.
How to sign Form 13615 online?
To sign Form 13615, simply fill out the necessary fields using PDF Guru's online PDF editor. You can add your electronic signature or print the form to sign it by hand. After completing the form, click Done to download it. Remember to check for the latest updates regarding the form's requirements before finalizing your signature. Note that PDF Guru does not support form submission, so you'll need to handle that separately.
Where to file Form 13615?
Form 13615 can be submitted by emailing it to your VITA/TCE coordinator or faxing it to the designated number.
You also have the option to deliver it in person to your local VITA/TCE site. Make sure to submit it on time to avoid processing delays.
