Link & Learn Taxes: IRS Volunteer Certification Portal

The Link & Learn Taxes portal is an official web-based program developed by the IRS, designed specifically for individuals volunteering with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. This online platform is your gateway to essential tax law training and certification, enabling you to accurately prepare tax returns for those in need. It serves as a comprehensive e-learning environment where you can develop and test your tax preparation knowledge at your own pace. This digital portal offers a streamlined experience for volunteers to self-register, access training modules, and complete required certification tests. Whether you are a new volunteer or returning for recertification, the Link & Learn Taxes system provides the resources necessary to meet IRS standards and confidently assist taxpayers. Understanding how to navigate this system is crucial for a successful volunteering experience.

Preparing for Your Link & Learn Tax Certification Journey

• You must register for an account on the VITA/TCE Central system, which is the certification test site.
• Provide basic personal details including your first name, last name, address, and email address during registration.
• Create a unique Login Name and a case-sensitive password. This login will be used for all future access and can be reused annually.
• Select your appropriate volunteer group from a dropdown menu. You can select multiple groups if applicable.
• Indicate if you wish to take the Site Coordinator course if that role applies to you.
• If seeking Continuing Education (CE) Credits, you must select your professional status and may need to provide a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), unless you are an Attorney, CPA, or CFP.

Accessing Your Link & Learn Certification Account

1. Navigate to the official VITA/TCE Central homepage at https://www.linklearncertification.com.
2. Enter your Login Name into the designated field.
3. Type your case-sensitive password into the password field.
4. Click the login button to access your online account management user dashboard.

Exploring the Learning and Certification Tools

• Self-Paced E-learning Modules: Access various interactive workout lessons covering numerous tax topics, including filing basics, income, adjustments, credits, and more.
• Certification Tests: Complete mandatory online certification tests for VITA/TCE programs, including Volunteer Standards of Conduct and Intake/Interview and Quality Review, with options for Basic, Advanced, Military, and International levels.
• Instant Test Results: Receive immediate feedback on your certification test performance.
• Training Materials and Publications: Utilize quick links to access the latest training guides and certification tests in PDF format.
• Practice Lab Access: Gain entry to a simulated VITA/TCE learning environment (TaxSlayer Practice Lab) for hands-on experience in tax return preparation, separate from the certification site.
• Account Profile Management: Update your personal information, group, professional status, and email address annually through the My Account section.
• Evaluation Surveys: Provide feedback on courses to help the IRS improve training materials.

Resolving Access Challenges on the Certification Portal

Maintaining a Secure Link & Learn Experience

• 🔒 Create a unique Login Name and a strong, case-sensitive password to safeguard your online account.
• 🔒 Update your profile information, including email, group, years volunteered, and professional status, within My Account annually.
• 🔒 Remember that the Practice Lab login is separate from your Link & Learn certification login; keep these credentials distinct.

Quick Answers for Link & Learn Certification Users