With tax filing season here, many are paying for professional services or software to get the job done. But a select group will have theirs done, no charge, by 15 students enrolled in Lakeshore Technical College’s Applied Tax course.
That group of taxpayers is eligible for the program called VITA, or Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, based upon income and other metrics. LTC has participated since 2005, and by providing free tax preparation, students gain experience while earning their IRS certification. Students can’t accept any pay or tips, and are supervised to ensure accuracy.
LTC Dean of Business, Technology and Hospitality, Douglas Hamm, said that although COVID placed great strains on the program in Wisconsin, “We are determined to continue offering this vital program in a safe manner to our community members who need it.”
Program capacity is limited by the number of students available, and this year’s reservations were filled by late January.
Last year, students provided over 500 hours of community service while preparing 149 returns at LTC’s Cleveland campus. Their efforts generated $239,000 in federal and state refunds for clients.
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