Accounting faculty and students will offer free tax return preparation services February 2 – April 13.
Tax season can be daunting and difficult. To help local residents prepare their 2017 tax returns, the Dolan School will offer complimentary appointments for individuals making up to $60,000. From today through April 13, assistance will be available through appointment only on a first-come, first-serve basis through the Dolan School of business on Fridays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
The income tax preparation office at the Dolan School is part of an IRS program that organizes offices in the greater Bridgeport area staffed by volunteers who have completed both technical and professional conduct certifications under IRS supervision. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) includes services such as electronic filing for federal and state returns, direct deposit refunds, and retired or self-employed income tax return preparations. Volunteers can also advise individuals on benefits screening, financial education, and how to turn refunds into long-term financial security.
“It is very important to offer low-income taxpayers the chance to get their tax returns filed free of charge by IRS-certified tax preparers at VITA sites,” said Ahmed Ebrahim, PhD, associate professor of Accounting at the Dolan School. “It helps them to obtain the tax credits they are entitled to while dealing with trusted and experienced people in a safe environment. In the process, our Accounting students and volunteers put their accounting and taxation knowledge into action by preparing tax returns for real clients.”
To schedule an appointment at the Dolan School of Business, please contact Jillian Liptak at jillian.liptak@fairfield.edu or call (203) 254-4307. For individuals unable to make an appointment at ¶¶Òô»ÆƬapp, Dr. Ahmed will also be taking appointments at the Bridgeport Islamic Community Center (BICC) located at 877 Park Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604. To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 633-2679.
