Many Taking Advantage of Free Tax Preparation Through NSU's VITA

Many Taking Advantage of Free Tax Preparation Through NSU's VITA Program

TAHLEQUAH - The Northeastern State University Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free income tax preparation for low income and elderly taxpayers, has already helped more than 115 community members in the first two weeks of service. Last year, VITA assisted 218 community members over a ten-week period.

The VITA program, offered by NSU for the past ten years, will provide assistance throughout this years tax season.

There are a number of reasons for the increased demand, said Dr. John Yeutter, Assistant Professor of Accounting and VITA Coordinator. The state of Oklahoma changed the tax forms last year, eliminating the State EZ form. This has made state taxes more complicated for some.

In addition, there were some changes to the tax law this summer that may have confused taxpayers, Yeutter said. Many received an advanced credit or rebate check in the middle of the year. There is confusion about how this will apply to this years tax return. In particular, if they received less than the maximum amount of the credit last year, it is possible that they can receive a credit this year.

The NSU staff has been trained to help taxpayers receive the appropriate amount of the credit, if it is available to them.

VITA, sponsored by both NSU and the IRS, is a free public service to families with a household income of less than $30,000. This includes NSU students, staff, and the Cherokee County community.

The VITA program will take advantage of the e-filing system. Using e-file software eliminates many of the errors associated with paper returns, and with IRS e-file, taxpayers can receive their tax refund sooner than if they mailed their returns.

VITA is open to help eligible community members every Monday through Wednesday, through April 10, from 3 to 6 p.m. in the Practical Arts Building, Room 125. The Practical Arts Building is located on the NSU campus at the corner of Grand and Garrison Avenues. The VITA program will temporarily close through the Universitys spring break scheduled for March 18 through March 22.

Anyone interested in the VITA services should bring their W-2s, 1099s, and information concerning other income, as well as information for deductions or credits, Social Security numbers for all members of the household, and a copy of last year's tax return.

For more information, please contact Dr. John Yeutter at 918-456-5511, ext. 2968.

2/12/02

Published: 2002-02-12 00:00:00