Business students at Houghton are once again offering free income tax preparation to qualifying Allegany County residents.

The college’s business department, in conjunction with United Way of Allegany County, offers this preparation through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. All individuals with low to moderate income (generally a return income less than $54,000) are eligible for this program, which aids them in preparing their federal and any applicable New York State returns.

Student volunteers have passed online tests through the IRS for certification to prepare returns and file them electronically, which shortens the wait time for refunds. For those eligible, they offer help with special credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit.

Houghton University students will be preparing returns on Wednesday evenings from February 19th through April 1st (with the exception of March 4th) in room 303 of the Houghton University library.

To schedule an appointment, dial 2-1-1 or 800-346-2211 (the United Way Help Line) and ask for a VITA tax preparation appointment at Houghton University. For additional information, email Elianna Chroniger at elianna.chroniger@houghton.edu.