Father Dave Pivonka, TOR '89 President | Franciscan University website

Accounting students from Franciscan University of Steubenville will once again be offering free tax preparation and e-filing assistance to Ohio Valley residents. This initiative is part of the Internal Revenue Service Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA).

From February 13th to April 13th, 2024, the students will be available at the Fort Steuben Mall, near the center court in the main entrance corridor. The hours of operation for this service are as follows: Mondays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Tuesdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. It is important to note that assistance will not be available from March 9th to March 17th during Franciscan University's Spring Break, as well as from March 29th to April 1st during the University's Easter recess.

These accounting students have completed an individual income tax course and have successfully passed a series of IRS training courses and exams. They are well-prepared to assist with both federal and state tax preparation. However, this assistance is specifically available to taxpayers with less than $60,000 of total income.

The services provided by the Franciscan University students include the preparation of various tax forms such as form 1040, Schedules 1, 2, and 3, Schedules A, B, and D, as well as forms for calculating child and childcare credits, education credits, and earned-income credits. Additionally, the students can also prepare Ohio tax returns for full-year residents of the state.

It is important to note that there are some limitations to the assistance provided. Taxpayers who purchased health insurance through an exchange and received federal subsidies reported on form 1095-A are not eligible for assistance at the site. Similarly, taxpayers who receive a 1099-MISC or 1099-NEC are also not eligible. Additionally, it should be noted that local tax return preparation is not available.

The Franciscan University accounting students are eager to assist Ohio Valley residents with their tax preparation needs. This annual program not only provides valuable assistance to the community but also offers these students a practical learning experience. As one student shared, "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to apply our knowledge and skills to help others in the community. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved."

Residents of the Ohio Valley are encouraged to take advantage of this free tax preparation service provided by the talented and dedicated students from Franciscan University. It is an excellent opportunity to receive expert assistance while also supporting the development of these future accounting professionals.