With tax season now in full-swing through April 18, a dedicated group of volunteers is making the filing process easier—and cheaper—for many local community members.
Local taxpayers with an annual income under $57,000 are eligible for free tax preparation help from students at the Indiana University Maurer School of Law’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site on Monday and Tuesday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. beginning January 30.
Law students, students from the Kelley School of Business, and local volunteers will staff the site at the Law School, 211 South Indiana Avenue, through March 28.
Eligible participants cannot own a business or have received income from the sale of stocks, mutual funds, or homes.
“The VITA program is a wonderful asset to our community and to our Law School,” said Indiana Law Professor David Gamage. “Qualifying taxpayers receive expert help while our students earn valuable real-world experience assisting the public. We’re proud to offer this service once again to the community.”
Non-residents for U.S. tax purposes (for example, a student who has only been in the U.S. since 2018 or scholar who has only been in the U.S. since 2021) are also eligible to receive through virtual income tax assistance services, though they must set up an appointment by emailing iubapvita@gmail.com after filling out as much of their tax return as possible using Sprintax.
Morgan Hood, a second-year law student and VITA site coordinator, said those wishing to utilize the VITA program can walk in during the announced service hours.
“Taxpayers just need to bring their tax documents—W2 forms and documents from other income sources—along with a valid form of identification and their Social Security card,” she said. “We will be located on the first floor of Baier Hall and will have signage to direct taxpayers to VITA volunteers.”
While copies of previous tax returns aren’t required, they are helpful to tax preparers.
Eligible taxpayers unable to travel to the Law School can use other VITA sites throughout Monroe, Brown, and Owen Counties.
Hood said Monroe County volunteers helped prepare 940 tax returns in spring 2022, with more than 40 volunteers dedicating their time to help.
“We’re excited to work with community members to help them navigate what can often be a confusing process,” Hood said.