Trine offering VITA tax services beginning Jan. 26

Low-income residents or those with disabilities or limited English proficiency can once again get their taxes prepared and filed electronically at no cost this spring through the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program hosted by Trine University.

Taxes will be prepared from 3:30-4:45 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays starting Jan. 26 through April 15 in Trine University’s Ford Hall, located at the corner of Darling Street and Thunder Drive.

The site will not operate during the university’s spring break, March 2-6.

Certified by the IRS

The team of volunteers includes nine Trine University accounting students who have been certified by the IRS to prepare taxes and Al Beatty, assistant professor of accounting in Trine’s Ketner School of Business. Volunteers are trained in changes resulting from the One Big Beautiful Bill tax law.

Translation will be offered for Spanish-speaking individuals.

Beatty noted that in addition to providing a community service, VITA allows Trine accounting students to get practical experience in preparing taxes before starting their careers.

“It’s a win for our students and the university as well as those who need the service,” he said.

Student volunteers earn IRS certification while enrolled in the AC 383 or 483 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance classes. Coursework includes role-playing and specialized scenarios prior to tax preparation beginning on Jan. 26.

VITA serves those who make $70,000 or less, persons with disabilities and limited-English-speaking taxpayers who need assistance.

Those filing must present a Social Security card for all people on the return and a government-issued photo ID for the main taxpayers on the return. They should bring basic tax documents such as W-2s or 1099s.

Filers must provide bank information for refunds to be paid via direct deposit, since the IRS will no longer issue refund checks.

Indiana residents also should bring information on property tax or rent paid.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Beatty at TrineVITA@trine.edu or (260) 665-4368.