The many benefits to tax season volunteers--be a hero.

• Position: Tax info

Following is an appeal for CPAs to volunteer their time and advice to help low-income individuals with their tax returns, which can be complicated and challenging.

You work very long hours during busy season. So why would you want to volunteer to help people with low incomes do their tax returns? And for those of you who don't do much tax work, why would you want to get involved in the first place?

Two important reasons: professional responsibility and personal satisfaction. These come from helping people who simply cannot cope with our complex tax system. Too often, they are taken advantage of by commercial preparers or wind up forgoing large refunds when they are so frustrated that they do not file. They need your help. If you are a partner or executive, establish guidelines and encourage your staff to volunteer.

Consider that associates at many law firms whose regular work week runs about 80 hours manage to make the time--and their firms encourage and support them. At least one legal aid program with 200+ volunteers boasts an average commitment of 50+ hours. Most law firm Web sites include the firm's pro bono contribution to the community.

Below is a list of nine tax clinics across the country (listed east to west) that could use your help. The time commitment is only as much as you want. They provide training that often qualifies for CPE credit. If you live in an area not listed, you can work with a local program by checking with the IRS VITA program. To learn the locations and dates for VITA programs, call Bill Stromsem at 202/434-9227 after Jan. 1, or...