Voluntary Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA)

Through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, accounting students who have completed Tax I and passed the IRS certification tests, donate 40 hours of community service during spring semester. They use their tax knowledge to provide free tax assistance to other students, including international students with special treaty requirements, low income, and elderly individuals in the area who are unfamiliar and uncomfortable with tax law and filing requirements.

VITA offers not only free preparation, but also free e-filing for those who qualify. With e-filing and direct deposit, those who qualify for a refund usually receive it in 8-10 days.

Who Qualifies for Services?

VITA is a free tax preparation and efiling program sponsored by the IRS for all persons with incomes of $50,000 or less.  Many of our clients qualify for earned income tax credit (EITC).  For these qualifying persons EITC means that they may receive a refundable credit of more than the taxes withheld.

What to Bring the VITA Session

• Birth dates and Social Security numbers for you, spouse, dependents
• Current year's tax package (if you received one)
• All tax documents from employers and financial institutions,
• such as W-2s, 1099s, 1042-S, 1098-T, etc.
• If you're expecting a refund and wish to have it direct deposited, bring bank routing and account number.
• A copy of last year's Federal and State returns if available
• Total paid for day care provider and the day care provider's Social Security number or business Employer identification number
• Taxpayers must be present to sign forms for e-file, or we can print out hard copies for taxpayers to take home, sign and mail themselves.

VITA Schedule

VITA sessions are open to the public on a walk in basis and are held:

Wednesday and Thursday - 4-7
Now through April 15 (Except for3/11-3/12)
Decker Hall - Room 14