Law Students Help Prepare Taxes

Elderly and low-income taxpayers who need help preparing their tax returns will again be able to turn to the Valparaiso University Law School VITA program for assistance.

Valparaiso Law students participate in the Internal Revenue Service’s Volunteers in Tax Assistance (VITA) community service program which offers free federal and state tax preparation to eligible taxpayers. The program, which is every Saturday beginning, February 9 – April 6 (closed on March 9 and 16), will be held at Valparaiso University’s Law School (located at 656 Greenwich Street).

Generally, taxpayers with annual income of $49,000 or less are eligible for the free tax preparation help as long as they have not filed for bankruptcy, had a foreclosure, or received money from the sale of a business or home.

“I feel very fortunate that we are once again able to provide this service for the hundreds of clients we serve each year,” said Cassidy Emery, lead site coordinator for the school’s VITA program. “Not only do student volunteers have an opportunity to reach out into the community, but the students will also gain a skill that can be used in their legal careers and throughout their lifetime.”

Appointments may be made by visiting the group’s website, www.valpo.edu/law/vita and filling out the Make an Appointment form, or by calling VITA’s voicemail system at 219.465.7900 and leaving a message. A member of the group will contact the individual to set up an appointment time.

Those receiving help MUST bring the following documents:

  • A photo identification and Social Security Card for all those doing a tax return. *Including spouses and children
  • All wage and earning statements including W-2, W-2G, 1099R from ALL employers.
  • Interest and dividend statements from banks (1099).
  • A copy of last year’s state and federal return (if possible).
  • Bank routing and account numbers.
  • If you rent in Indiana, please bring your landlord’s name and address.
  • If you are claiming medical expenses they need to be official receipts.

Questions about the VITA program can be directed to the group at valpo.vita@gmail.com or by leaving a message on the voicemail system.

For more information about Valparaiso University Law School, please visit our website .

Campus in the fall