Free VITA tax volunteers sought in Pahrump to aid families

The Nevada Free Taxes Coalition launched a volunteer drive in Pahrump this week to staff Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites that will offer free tax-preparation and financial education to low- and moderate-income residents. The 2026 program sets income eligibility at $69,000, targeting households that often pay for professional preparation.

NFTC executive director Jodi Mobley said paid preparer fees can be expensive and that VITA helps keep cash in local families' pockets by providing free preparation and basic financial guidance. The coalition is recruiting volunteers from across the community; prior finance experience is not required. Volunteers will use IRS-provided software that guides preparers through returns, and training takes roughly 20 hours, available both in-person and virtually.

In Pahrump, the program has operated at the community library and Great Basin College, and NFTC plans to open a regular site at Great Basin College on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tax preparation services will begin Friday, Jan. 30, 2026. The schedule and location aim to align with local rhythms and provide a consistent, walk-in-friendly window for residents who need assistance.

For Nye County households near the eligibility threshold, the Pahrump VITA site represents direct savings and easier access to tax filing help. Free preparation can reduce the out-of-pocket cost of hiring paid preparers and can prevent costly filing errors that trigger audits or missed credits. The program also functions as a community capacity-builder: trained volunteers gain tax-preparation skills while expanding local access to financial information.

Operationally, the VITA model relies on volunteers and standardized IRS tools to ensure returns meet filing standards. NFTC’s recruitment emphasizes inclusivity for volunteers and aims to widen the pool of local preparers, which can increase site hours and community reach as volunteer numbers grow. For residents, the combination of local sites and virtual training increases the program’s flexibility during tax season.

To volunteer or learn more about eligibility, training and site hours, visit NVFreeTaxes.org or call 702-987-4625. As the Jan. 30 start date approaches, organizers will be gauging volunteer capacity and community demand, and residents should monitor the coalition’s updates for any additions to hours or locations. The Pahrump VITA site is positioned to keep more tax-season dollars in local pockets and to broaden civic engagement through volunteer service.