News Summary
The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) is providing free tax assistance via its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, aimed at students and community members with household incomes of $69,000 or less. Running from February 1 to April 5, the program not only offers critical tax preparation services but also serves as a training opportunity for UCO’s accounting students. With assistance available on select days each week, UCO reinforces its commitment to community service and student development.
Oklahoma city, OK – The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) continues to uphold its commitment to community service by offering free tax assistance through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Catering to students, staff, faculty, and community members with a household income of $69,000 or less, this initiative not only provides essential tax preparation but also serves as a practical training ground for UCO’s certified accounting students.
Initiated to offer support during the tax season, the VITA program spans from February 1 to April 5, 2023, with services available on select days each week. This initiative reflects UCO’s dedication to academic excellence, community engagement, and leadership development by providing resources that ease the financial burden for many Oklahoma households.
VITA Program Overview
The VITA program at UCO is designed to assist individuals in preparing their taxes quickly and accurately. Certified accounting students receive hands-on training supervised by UCO accounting faculty, ensuring quality assistance while gaining valuable experience in real-world applications. This collaboration between students and faculty exemplifies how education can have a direct impact on serving the community’s needs.
Service Offerings
UCO’s VITA program includes comprehensive services for eligible participants. Here are the critical features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Household income of $69,000 or less |
| Services Offered | Free tax preparation and e-filing |
| Operating Hours | Tuesdays and Thursdays: 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturdays: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. |
| Location | Business building, Room 107, University of Central Oklahoma |
| Program Dates | February 1 to April 5; closed March 16 to March 20 for spring break |
| Contact Information | Riley Shaull, rshaull@uco.edu, 405-974-2846 |
Operational Hours
Participants can access the VITA program during specified hours throughout the taxpayer season. Services are rendered on a first-come, first-served basis, emphasizing the need for early arrival to secure assistance. The team is committed to processing tax returns efficiently, aiming to alleviate some stress during this demanding period.
Required Documentation
To receive assistance, individuals must bring essential tax documents, including W-2 forms, 1099 forms, Social Security cards, and a government-issued photo ID. This ensures that the accounting students can accurately complete the tax returns and provide the most beneficial support possible.
Community Impact
The VITA program is a testament to UCO’s mission of fostering personal responsibility and community involvement. By offering these vital services, UCO not only supports individuals during tax season but also helps cultivate future leaders in the field of accounting. The real-world experience gained by students through this program enhances their educational journey and prepares them for successful careers.
Conclusion
The University of Central Oklahoma’s VITA program is a shining example of how higher education institutions can make a meaningful impact on their communities. By providing free tax assistance and empowering students through practical training, UCO upholds its role as a leader in Oklahoma’s educational landscape. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and share the information widely, ensuring that those in need can benefit from this valuable resource.
Explore UCO’s VITA program and take advantage of the free tax assistance services by visiting their website or contacting the program directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the VITA program?
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to individuals with a household income of $69,000 or less, including students, staff, faculty, and community members. Certified accounting students, supervised by UCO accounting faculty, assist in preparing tax returns.
When and where is the VITA program available?
Services are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the Business building, Room 107, at the University of Central Oklahoma. The program runs from February 1 to April 5, with a closure during UCO’s spring break from March 16 to March 20.
What documents do I need to bring?
Individuals seeking assistance should bring all necessary tax documents, including W-2 forms, 1099 forms, Social Security cards, and a government-issued photo ID. It’s recommended to arrive early, as services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
How can I contact the VITA program for more information?
For more information, visit UCO’s VITA program website or contact Riley Shaull, UCO accounting instructor, at rshaull@uco.edu or 405-974-2846.
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