Weber State accounting students offer free tax prep help
OGDEN, Utah — Accounting students at Weber State University are making a dreaded annual task a bit easier for Utahns this spring.
Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, any Utah resident with an annual income of $75,000 or less, with no rental income or cryptocurrency transactions, can receive free help filing their taxes.
“VITA is a unique educational experience because of how impactful it is for both community members and students,” said Eric Smith, accounting professor and Center for Tax Education & Research director. “From an academic perspective, students learn and become certified to prepare individual tax returns. They then immediately apply this knowledge and skillset to benefit community members in providing a needed and welcome service.”
The VITA program is operated through the Internal Revenue Service, and WSU’s Center for Tax Education & Research sponsors the initiative on campus.
Last year, students prepared more than 200 tax returns.
So far this year, they’ve completed 12 hours of sessions at Weber State University Davis, and now they’re preparing returns every Monday evening through April 13 at the Community Education Center in Ogden.
The program operates as an experiential learning course, meaning students gain first-hand experience on their way to becoming accounting professionals. Before working with clients, this year’s 13-student cohort went through multiple class sessions to prepare to become VITA certified.
Now, they’re sharing that expertise with others. Smith calls it the place “where student education and community benefit meet.”
Services are available by appointment only. View times and book a session through the VITA website.
Rachel Badali, Public Relations Director
801-626-7948, rachelbadali@weber.edu- Contact:
Rachel Badali, Public Relations Director
801-626-7948, rachelbadali@weber.edu