Coached Self-File

 
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HOW IT WORKS - THE DETAILS

You request an appointment online through our website.

You will be contacted and we do the initial screening based on:

  • desire to learn how to do your own taxes

  • access to a computer/internet

  • comfort using a computer

  • basic tax situation

  • modest income (see CVITP income guidelines here).

Should the Coached Self-file method not be the best option, we will offer to prepare and file your tax return for you through our CVITP services.

If the Coached Self-file option is suitable, we schedule an initial telephone appointment with a tax coach to review your specific tax situation and get you ready. At the end of this appointment your tax coach will send you:

  • a checklist of documents, tax slips and receipts you will need

  • the link to the special TurboTax software, the ‘Turbo Tax for Tax Clinics’ user guide and short ‘how to’ videos to get you started

  • a personalized overview of the basic steps to complete your tax return

  • a time/date for a ‘Review and File’ appointment.

You will be encouraged to start the process and do what you can before the next appointment.

The Review and File appointment is done via an online meeting app that allows screen sharing. A webcam is not required. During this last appointment:

  • you are guided to complete any steps remaining

  • any questions are answered

  • your tax return is reviewed for completeness/accuracy

  • you file your tax return

  • we complete a short anonymous exit survey.