CSUSB accounting students help prepare for tax season

By Sara Gutierrez |Staff Writer|

The mere mention of taxes can make even the bravest of individuals cringe in fear, and for good reason too.

Not even Wesely Snipes, Blade himself, could escape the grasp of the IRS, so be sure you’re reporting honestly and correctly.

For many of you, this may be the first year you’ve ever done taxes. You may be confused about the forms and deductions for which you are eligible.

The majority of students I interviewed file as dependents under their parents.

“I do my taxes with my parents. I have two siblings in the Cal State University [system as well]. It’s the best [possible] return for us,” said Betzabe Ibarra.

Even seasoned tax veterans may have overlooked possible deductions in the past or have new dependents to account for.

Perhaps, you are just wanting to ask some tax questions and get clear answers.

Whichever category you fall into, the simple fact remains, taxes are confusing and many of the tax laws change annually, so get help from reliable sources.

Reliable free sources are the best, like CSUSB’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program!

This program offers free income tax preparation to low-income and elderly taxpayers in the Inland Empire.

You have to have a maximum income of $60,000 to qualify.

VITA will help navigate you through the education credit guidelines, dependent care credit and other types of deductions.

For tax preparation services the price varies between different businesses.

“The average I pay is around $50,” said student Victor Vivas.

All people wishing to participate in the program must have a valid photo identification, Social Security card or individual taxpayer identification number cards for each taxpayer or dependents claimed.

To do your taxes, the VITA members need all your tax papers such as any W-2s, 1098’s, etc. Free electronic filing is included as well.

CSUSB’s own accounting students are the ones preparing taxes and gaining valuable job training.

Students are helping to carry on the 30-year-old tradition of accounting students preparing tax returns for Inland residents.

Every Wednesday until April 13, the CSUSB VITA program offers free tax preparation services on campus in the fourth floor of Jack Brown Hall and work from 1 to 6 p.m. Appointments are not necessary, you can simply walk in.

The sooner you file, the sooner you get your return. That would come in handy when you’re planning for spring break at the end of March.

“I usually buy something. My parents usually urge me to [put some of the refund] into my saving,” said student Jacqueline Reyes.

If you’re not on campus on Wednesdays, don’t worry The VITA program works out of numerous locations in the Inland Empire, which include the Fontana Boys and Girls club and Rancho Cucamonga Northtown Community Center.

For more information on the VITA program visit cbpa.csusb.edu/vita.