McNeese, United Way offer tax help

McNeese State University has once again partnered with United Way of Southwest Louisiana this tax season to offer free tax preparation assistance to qualifying citizens in Southwest Louisiana through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

This year, 20 McNeese finance and accounting majors are gaining hands-on experience in preparing taxes as interns for VITA.

“Through the VITA program, our interns get handson experience in their field while helping the community,” Morgan Turpin, internship director for the McNeese College of Business, said.

Turpin and Mike Roach, assistant professor of accounting and VITA site coordinator/ manager, are working together to ensure the VITA program continues to be a success at McNeese.

“Our interns are IRS-certified volunteers who provide this tax preparation. We are proud to partner with United Way to provide this valuable service,” she said.

Individuals with an income of less than $54,000 in 2018 qualify for free tax preparation, as well as persons with disabilities, senior citizens and limited English-speaking taxpayers.

VITA also offers additional services, such as tax review for previous returns.

Both appointments and walk-ins are welcome.

VITA is located in Room 302 of the Burton Business Center. Hours are noon-8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2-8 p.m. Wednesdays and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays. The program will be available through April 13, but the office will be closed March 4-6 for Mardi Gras.

For more information or a list of required documents, call 433-1088 or visit www.unitedwayswla.org/VITA.

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Ashlee Lhamon is a graduate assistant at McNeese State University.