Crete Public Library and Doane University are offering a way for students to learn how to do their taxes for free. The program is called VITA, or Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, and is for people who: make $64,000 or less, people with disabilities and people who are limited English-speaking taxpayers, along with the elderly.
The program is designed to provide these people with a free tax preparation service.
“Many individuals with low-to-moderate incomes may not be aware of the various tax credits and deductions available to them. VITA volunteers are trained to identify these opportunities, helping taxpayers maximize their refunds and improve their financial well-being,” said Tracy Corr, assistant professor of practice in the College of Business.
The reason why Doane partners with the Crete Public Library is to reach a broader audience, and partnering with a public entity is the best way to do this, as they have the funding of the local government.
The program is also working on extending its services within the Doane Community to international students, as the “U.S. tax laws are complicated and different than other countries,” Corr said.
Having this service for international students could serve as a stress reliever for international students, who, “do not have the time or the desire to spend on studying and interpreting the U.S. tax system,” according to Corr.
The program also serves as an internship opportunity for students here at Doane University. It also provides the service-learning project for the SVL-422, Service Learning in Democratic Society. “Students gain firsthand experience by participating in a service-learning experience with a community partner that addresses an unmet community need,” the Doane Course Catalog states.
VITA started Feb. 6, and is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
