How should VITA volunteers handle clients with language barriers?

Handling clients with language barriers effectively is crucial to ensuring they receive the assistance they need in a way that is accessible and clear. The correct approach involves using language assistance services or bilingual volunteers whenever available. This strategy allows for effective communication, ensuring that clients fully understand the services being provided and can convey their needs accurately.

By utilizing bilingual volunteers or established language assistance services, VITA programs can create a more inclusive environment that respects and acknowledges the diverse backgrounds of clients. This fosters trust and helps mitigate misunderstandings that could lead to errors in tax preparation.

In contrast, having clients interpret for themselves can lead to confusion and miscommunication, particularly if they may not fully understand the tax terminology being used. Providing written materials only in English excludes non-English speakers from fully comprehending important information, which can adversely affect their tax filing experience. Referring clients to external translation services might delay assistance and could create additional barriers, rather than facilitating immediate support within the context of the VITA program.