PORT ORANGE, Fla. — A Central Florida man knows how to do something that a lot of people don't, and he does it even though he is blind.

What You Need To Know

  • Matt Roberts is blind but can prepare taxes in Volusia and Flagler counties because he has memorized the forms

  • His clients and technology give Roberts a little help

  • Roberts volunteers through United Way's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program 

"I love it," Matt Roberts said with a laugh.

Since 2017, Roberts has been part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, which is part of United Way of Flagler and Volusia County. He is a master of taxes and knows forms that sometimes can confuse a Rhodes Scholar.

"I pretty much know certain forms," Roberts said. "I have it memorized. I can tell you exactly what I need and where I need it."

How does he serve? Roberts said most people read the information to him, and he has help from technology that repeats what he enters into the computer.

"For me, serving is the most important thing in the world," Roberts said. "I need to prove to folks that, 'Hey, you can serve me, but I can also serve you.'"

While that technology helps, his knowledge is more important. Roberts studied for IRS certification and passed.

"When it's over, when the tax form is done, it's printed out, they've signed it, it's going to be e-filed, it's amazing how many people come over and shake my hand and say, 'Thank you,'" he said.

The Volunteer Tax Assistance program offers free tax preparation at multiple sites.