NSUBA Offers Free Income-Tax Preparation Assistance

BROKEN ARROW - The Northeastern State University Broken Arrow Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program will once again provide free tax preparation services for low-income and elderly taxpayers this tax season.

"Our student volunteers help low-income taxpayers meet their filing obligations and claim the Earned Income Tax Credit," said Paula Gorden, instructor of accounting and VITA coordinator.

VITA, sponsored by both NSU and the Internal Revenue Service, is a free public service to families with a household income of less than $35,000. This includes NSU students, staff, and the community.

The VITA program is held in Room 230 of Building G every Monday from 2-8 p.m., Tuesday from 2-6 p.m., and Wednesday from 3-7 p.m. through Tuesday, April 17. To make an appointment in Broken Arrow, call 918-486-2471. Walk-ins are welcome.

Trained volunteers can help eligible taxpayers will all special credits, such as the Child Tax Credit or Credit for the Elderly. New this year is a one-time refund of the telephone excise tax, between $30 and $60, for telephone tax paid on long-distance service between February 2003 and August 2006.

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 federal and state tax returns.

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. Taxpayers will need to bring their banking information with them to e-file.