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Stetson University students to prepare tax returns through April 14

Stetson University in Deland, Fla. announced that specially-trained students will be preparing income tax returns for local individuals and families as part of the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

Student volunteers will prepare returns on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6-8 p.m. through April 14, in Room 318 of Stetson’s Lynn Business Center in the School of Business Administration. Returns are prepared by appointment only by calling the United Way at 211.

Students must have completed specialized training and certifying exams in order to prepare returns for the program. VITA also is a service project of Beta Alpha Psi, the honorary association for accounting, finance and information systems students.

“Students will be assisting those with a household income of $54,000 or less,” said Bonnie Holloway, visiting lecturer in Accounting, in a statement. “This is a great way for students to apply the concepts they have learned in class to the real world.”

“This program serves a need for both the community and the students,” added Holloway. “Local, qualifying families are receiving free tax preparation, and Stetson students gain experience applying accounting concepts to real life, while learning professionalism, courtesy, customer service and communication skills.”

In order to receive a return, clients must bring photo IDs, their social security card, tax forms, information about health insurance coverage. If filing jointly, both spouses must be present. Returns are generally filed electronically and refunds should be received within approximately 21 days. VITA volunteers do not prepare returns involving rental properties or income earned abroad.

For more on Stetson University, head to their site here.

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