Tax season is upon us, and for University of Utah students who find the process daunting or their pockets pinched, it’s good news, free tax help is here. The University of Utah has kicked off its annual tax filing assistance program, courtesy of the Internal Revenue Service's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. From Feb. 4 through April 15, students who earn $70,000 or less annually can access free tax services on campus.

According to At The U, Beth Hunsaker, associate director of the university's Financial Wellness Center (FWC), explained the income threshold for eligibility "The reason for the income limit is actually to make sure that the taxes are simple enough for our trained volunteers," she said, noting that complexities such as business income may require more specialized expertise, and thus, are not covered under the program. IRS-certified volunteers from Beta Alpha Psi, an honors organization for finance students, collaborate with the VITA program to help their peers navigate through tax season, this year hoping to surpass the 400 tax returns filed last year.

What’s better, the help isn’t limited to domestic students, Hunsaker pointed out that international students on F1 and J1 visas are also included among those eligible for the services, the clinics are available through a designated tax site off campus, in addition to the on-campus center. "Last year we filed just under 400 taxes through our sites and this year we’re hoping to break 500 between the two locations," Hunsaker said, as per At The U, signifying a push to expand the program's reach and impact. On offer are about 60 appointment slots per week spanning 9 weeks, with students able to book these via online scheduling or by calling 801-585-7379, and yes, walk-ins have a green light too.