Francis Marion University Offers Free Tax Preparation Services

News Summary

Francis Marion University (FMU) is providing free tax return preparation services via the IRS’s VITA program, starting January 29. Trained tax accounting students will assist residents with their federal and state tax returns at no cost. Appointments are available every Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM in the School of Business/School of Education building. All U.S. residents can access this service regardless of income, promoting financial literacy and supporting the community during tax season.

Florence, SC – Francis Marion University (FMU) is set to provide free tax return preparation services to residents through the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, commencing January 29 and continuing until April 9. This initiative allows individuals to have their federal and state tax returns prepared and filed at no cost by trained tax accounting students.

The VITA program will operate every Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering 13 appointment slots each hour. Interested participants are required to make an appointment to secure their tax preparation session, which will be held in the School of Business/School of Education building at FMU. To schedule an appointment, individuals can contact Professor Brad Johnson at 843-661-1427 or via email at bjohnson@fmarion.edu.

Students participating in the VITA program have received training at an advanced certification level, equipping them to handle individual tax returns with an adept understanding of current tax laws. Utilizing the TaxSlayer platform, they will prepare and file both state and federal tax returns, providing valuable support to those in need of assistance.

All U.S. residents are eligible to utilize these services, with no restrictions based on income. This inclusivity allows individuals from various backgrounds to access professional tax assistance. Participants are advised to bring specific documentation including a valid photo ID, a detailed list of their spouse and dependents, as well as any W-2s and 1099 forms necessary for filing their taxes.

The VITA program is a collaborative effort between FMU and the Internal Revenue Service, aimed at easing the tax preparation process for individuals who may find it difficult to manage their tax filings independently. The hands-on experience for students not only contributes to their education but also benefits the community by providing much-needed tax services.

As tax season approaches, many individuals may face challenges in understanding the complexities of tax laws and preparation. FMU’s VITA program serves as a critical resource, especially for those who may have financial constraints that deter them from seeking professional help. This free service helps improve financial literacy and ensures that community members are able to capitalize on eligible deductions and credits, ultimately maximizing their tax refunds.

Individuals who wish to take advantage of this offering are encouraged to prepare by gathering necessary documents ahead of their appointment. This proactive approach will facilitate a smoother experience for both the taxpayers and the student preparers.

For those looking for assistance and clarity during this taxing season, FMU’s VITA program is positioned to deliver reliable, professional support, marking a significant contribution to the financial well-being of the Florence community.

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