Free tax-preparation service to open Feb. 18 at Aurora University
AURORA, Ill. (Feb. 15) - Since Aurora University introduced the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program in 2002, AU tax preparers have helped generate more than $3 million in refunds for local taxpayers and saved them an estimated $600,000 in tax-preparation fees.
Last year alone, about 40 AU students, faculty, staff and alumni prepared federal and state tax returns for 550 clients at no charge, leading to $495,000 in refunds. The largest single refund, $11,120, went to an Aurora resident.
As VITA opens its 10th season this weekend, faculty in the AU Dunham School of Business are looking forward to celebrating a decade of serving the community.
"The VITA program provides a much-needed community benefit and creates a rich environment for hands-on learning as AU business students interact directly with real clients," said David Diehl, Assistant Professor and Director of the MBA Program.
The 10th annual VITA program kicks off Saturday, Feb. 18, from 8 a.m. to noon in the lobby of Dunham Hall, 1400 Marseillaise Place in Aurora. VITA sessions will also be held March 3 and 24. In a change this year, taxpayers will not have to wait for their returns to be completed; instead, they can pick them up between noon and 2 p.m. a week after their appointment.
The free service, including e-filing, is available to low-income, elderly and disabled residents earning up to $50,000. No reservations are accepted. Bilingual college students will provide translation assistance for Spanish-speaking taxpayers. Taxpayers should bring copies of personal documents, including Social Security card, driver's license, 2010 W2s and other tax statements, state and federal 2009 returns, voided check or deposit slip, 2010 real-state tax statement and childcare provider identification.
Call or e-mail au-vita@aurora.edu for more information.
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