DEKOVIA LIVINGSTON LIVINGSTON TAXES

Dekovia Livingston lives her life by a mantra she’s had to learn the hard

“You’ve got to make yourself recession proof,” proclaimed the owner of Livingston 9/11 and past downturns in the economy had left Livingston, who previously worked as an electrical engineer, scouting for new opportunities in business

Livingston started out in the field of tax preparation in 2004, and has seen her company, in which she handles both personal and tax matters, grow considerably.

Her professional life took an unexpected turn in 2021 when she received a call from the Internal Revenue Service. The government agency wanted to partner with Livingston to aid those grappling with difficult financial circumstances. She said yes.

“It’s about helping people who are struggling like those who are delinquent in taxes because they can’t pay the fees,” said Livingston of the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. “A lot of people are immigrants who are scared or unsure of the process.”

And it’s not only tax assistance on offer but a range of workshops focused on budgeting, home buying, building interview skills, and more Livingston finds the work immensely gratifying.

“I love being able to tell people ‘let me help you out,’” she said.

For more information or to support the VITA program and its mission, visit www.freeforyouservices.org.