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MILLIGAN COLLEGE, Tenn. (Jan. 7, 2019) — This year marks over a decade of service from Milligan College’s VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program, which provides free, IRS-certified tax return preparation to local citizens.
This year, the program will take place in Milligan’s Derthick Hall from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. on three Saturdays during the 2019 filing season: February 16, March 23 and April 6. The program will be sponsored again by Bank of Tennessee and Carter County Bank.
Milligan’s VITA program offers a free alternative that provides the same fast refunds as paid preparers offer. Over the years, volunteers have completed hundreds of returns and saved local taxpayers thousands of dollars, with each client averaging over $1,000 in refunds.
Under the supervision of Heather Vaccaro, assistant professor of business administration, Milligan students, who are trained extensively and certified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), will prepare returns for citizens of Johnson City, Elizabethton and the surrounding areas.
Milligan President Dr. Bill Greer said the VITA program has become a highly effective example of the college’s strong emphasis on servant-leadership.
“VITA is a practical, hands-on way for our students to make a positive difference and become servant-leaders in their community,” said Greer. “We’re delighted to have Bank of Tennessee and Carter County Bank as partners in our efforts to provide this important service.”
Taxpayers eligible for VITA services include: people with annual incomes of less than $54,000; anyone with a physical disability; non-English-speaking citizens; and people older than 55. In addition to electronic filing for quick deposit of returns, VITA volunteers can inform taxpayers about special tax credits for which they may qualify, such as earned income tax credit, child tax credit, and credit for the elderly or the disabled.
Every taxpayer participating in VITA must file an Intake/Interview Questionnaire. Only one completed form is needed if filing status is Married Filing Jointly. The form can be completed prior to an appointment.
Appointments are required. Online registration, forms and more information are available now at www.milligan.edu/vita or call 423.461.8700 to book an appointment.