KU law, business students assist with free tax preparations

LAWRENCE – Law and business students from the University of Kansas are offering free tax services for those who qualify from Feb. 13 through April 16.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program prepares returns for taxpayers who are Kansas, Missouri or Illinois residents making less than $49,000 per year and not itemizing deductions. Last year, students prepared about 400 federal and state tax returns.

Law student Joel Griffiths is coordinating this year’s program, with about 30 other law and business students helping to prepare returns.

“VITA is an invaluable program for both the community and the university. It relieves many individuals and families from the burden of doing their own taxes or paying a professional,” Griffiths said. “For the student volunteers, VITA provides the hands-on opportunity to work directly with clients. The volunteers not only learn about taxes, but also learn valuable lessons about interviewing and dealing with clients.”

Stephen Mazza, dean of the law school and professor of law, serves as the VITA faculty coordinator.

The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis. For specific information, call (785) 864-9227 or email vita@ku.edu.

Spring 2012 Schedule

Monday: 6-8:45 p.m., Green Hall, Computer Lab 306D, Third Floor Library, 1535 W. 15th St.

Tuesday: 1-3:30 p.m., Penn House, 1035 Pennsylvania St.

Wednesday: 3-5:30 p.m., Green Hall, Computer Lab 306D, Third Floor Library, 1535 W. 15th St.

Thursday: 3-4:45 p.m., Ballard Center, 708 Elm St.; and 5-6:30 p.m., Lawrence Housing Authority, 1600 Haskell Ave. #187

Saturday: 10-11:45 a.m., Green Hall, Computer Lab 306D, Third Floor Library, 1535 W. 15th St.

No sessions will be held Feb. 25 or March 17-24.