Allegany County residents with low to moderate-income (generally a return income less than $54,000) can schedule an appointment for free assistance in preparing their federal and any applicable New York State returns. Houghton University’s business department, in conjunction with United Way of Allegany County, is offering this preparation through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

Houghton University students will prepare returns in person this year on Wednesday evenings from February 16 through April 6 (except March 2) in the library on the Houghton University campus. These student volunteers have passed IRS online tests to be certified to prepare returns and file them electronically, which shortens the wait time for refunds. The volunteers can help with special credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit, for those eligible.

Clients will schedule an appointment at either 5:30 PM or 7:30 PM and sit with the students while they help prepare returns. Clients must be willing to wear a mask appropriately during their time on campus, per New York State and County protocol (read more about Houghton’s Covid protocols). To ensure that their return will fit the scope of the program and to schedule appointments, interested individuals should contact Professor Elianna McHenry.