Annual Free Tax-Preparation Services by CSU, Chico Students to be Offered Starting Feb. 4

With tax season officially here, California State University, Chico will once again provide free tax-preparation services for the Chico community for those who qualify.

For the eighth consecutive year, University students will prepare and electronically file the returns for free in conjunction with the Internal Revenue Service’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA).

Starting Monday, Feb. 4, CSU, Chico’s chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, an honorary organization for financial information students and professionals, will offer free tax-preparation services with a partnership with the IRS.

This free service is available for those who earned $60,000 or less in 2018, and those interested in using the VITA service should call 530-988-8482 for information.

VITA director Oscar Diaz reported that 92 VITA volunteers prepared federal and state tax returns for 952 people during the 2018 tax season, putting approximately $900,000 back into their pockets and saving them more than $250,000 in tax-preparation services.

Those interested in the service are urged to bring:

• A copy of their 2018 tax return

• Social Security or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number cards for the entire family

• Photo identification

• Wages and earnings statements (including W-2, 1099 and 1098 forms)

• Documentation for deductions and credits

Child care documentation, including provider identification number and amount paid

• A voided check for direct deposit of refund

Tax-preparation services will be available at the following dates, time and locations until April 6:

Bell Memorial Union, Room 204, CSU, Chico

Mondays, 4 to 8 p.m.

Wednesdays, 4 to 8 p.m.

Chico Area Recreation and Park District (CARD) Community Center, 545 Vallombrosa Ave., Chico

Mondays, noon to 4 p.m.

Wednesdays, noon to 4 p.m.

Dorothy F. Johnson Center, 775 East 16th Street

Saturdays, noon to 4 p.m. (through April 6)

Tax-preparation services at all locations will be closed March 16-24 due to spring break.

VITA trains volunteers to provide tax-preparation services, and volunteers include accounting majors and students from many other disciplines. All volunteers must pass tax exams at several levels, including Standards of Conduct, Intake/Quality Review and Advanced Tax exams.

If you are interested in volunteering, please email the student organization at csuc.bap.vita@gmail.com. Information on additional VITA sites and times is available at https://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep or by calling 530-988-8482.

Founded in 1919, Beta Alpha Psi has over 300 chapters on college and university campuses. The organization promotes the study and practice of accounting, finance and information systems; provides opportunities for self-development, service and association among members and practicing professionals; and encourages a sense of ethical, social and public responsibility.