Colorado State University’s Vita Program Offers Free Help Preparing Income Tax Returns

Having trouble interpreting the federal tax code or filling out complicated income tax forms? The public can get free help preparing basic tax returns through Colorado State University’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, offered through April 15.

Services are available from 2-5 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, with the exception of spring break from March 10 to 14. The program will be located in the Lory Student Center.

The program’s mission is to provide free tax assistance with basic tax returns to people who may not be able to afford professional tax help. The program, run by students, is sponsored by the Colorado State chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, a national honorary and professional accounting fraternity housed in the College of Business.

"This is a great opportunity for anyone who needs help in preparing income tax returns to take advantage of a free service," said Gary Heer, vice president of finance for the Colorado State chapter. The program benefits students because they gain experience in their field and perform a much-needed service for the community, Heer said. Last year, Beta Alpha Psi members volunteered more than 225 hours to the VITA program.

Those interested in using the program should bring this year’s tax package and label, all forms, W-2 and 1099 forms, information about other income, information for all deductions and credits and a copy of last year’s tax return with them to the program site.

Volunteers at Colorado State only can assist with tax forms for U.S. citizens. However, VITA volunteers will have the necessary tax forms available for people who live in the United States but are not citizens.

The Colorado State program will take place in the Lory Student Center. No appointments are necessary. Dates and room numbers follow.

DATE/ROOM March 3–Virginia Dale March 4–165 March 6–206 March 17–224 March 18–208 March 20–206 March 24–Virginia Dale March 25–166 March 27–165 March 31–202 April 1–165 April 3–206 April 7–165 April 8–210 April 10–165 April 14–210 April 15–208