ODU Offers Free Tax Preparation
April 4, 2003
Students lend their help to others at tax time. Accounting students at Ohio Dominican University are learning firsthand about the value of community service as they hone up their tax preparation skills.
Eighteen students in Dr. Robyn Hulsart's accounting internship class have been certified by the Internal Revenue Service to be IRS VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) tax preparers. As a result, Ohio Dominican has been approved by the IRS 
as a VITA site, offering free tax preparation services to seniors and low-income individuals.
Students in Dr. Hulsart's class have completed a three-part IRS exam that certifies them for tax preparation.
The students are in effect running their own tax business, according to Dr. Hulsart, assistant professor of business and finance.
The program is an extension of Ohio Dominican's longstanding tradition of service to those in need in the surrounding community. The tax preparation program began last year, when Dr. Hulsart's students provided the service to approximately 40 of the University's international students.
Other universities in Ohio have heard about the program and contacted Dr. Hulsart with an interest in bringing it to their campuses. "We believe this is a model service program for small universities like ours," she said.
"We've found this program to be quite beneficial in bridging a student's experience between the classroom and the community. It's a win-win for everyone…the students, and those they serve," said Dr. Hulsart.
"I like my internship because it allows me to use my acquired tax skills to help others in the community," said Matt Forster, a junior majoring in accounting.
Dr. Hulsart and Deborah Duffy, accounting instructor who has also been overseeing the students, have been spreading the word about the program among local senior centers, nursing homes and churches in the area. Those who meet the qualifications are encouraged to participate. Approximately 60 seniors and those meeting the income requirements have taken advantage of the program.
"This is a good idea and more people should know about it. The teachers and students are a good buffer for making sure your taxes are done correctly, said Audrey Barr, a senior citizen who took advantage of the program.
Students will prepare the following tax forms:
- Form 104EZ
- Form 1040 With Schedules 1,2, 3 and EIC
- Form 1040 with Schedules A, B, C-EZ, D, EIC, R and SE
- Form 1040-V
- Form 104-ES
- Form 2441 (Child and Dependent Care Credit)
- Form 8812 (Additional Child Tax Credit)
- Form 8863 (Education Credits)
Individuals must schedule an appointment during daytime or evening hours.
The student tax preparers are located in Room 132 of Sansbury Hall on the Ohio Dominican campus, 1216 Sunbury Road.
To schedule an appointment, call 251-4594.
