Accounting students offer free tax prep

Students pursuing bachelor's and master's accounting degrees in the University of North Georgia's (UNG) Mike Cottrell College of Business (MCCB) will build their tax preparation skills and aid the surrounding communities as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program sponsored by the IRS this semester. The program normally serves over 100 taxpayers each filing season. 

The program offers two options: 

• The on-site free tax preparation services are offered by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Feb. 1-29 in Room 153 of the Cottrell Center for Business, Technology and Innovation at UNG's Dahlonega Campus. Lisa Nash, CPA and senior lecturer of accounting, continues to oversee the tax preparation services. To schedule an appointment on campus, call 706-867-3082 or email vita@ung.edu.  
• The site will also be offering a free online, facilitated self-assist program where taxpayers can prepare their tax returns online with the oversight assistance of the VITA volunteers. UNG students are eligible to use this service in preparing their tax returns. This service allows the students to learn how to file their returns with guidance, so the returns are completed accurately.

"As the IRS begins to implement a 'direct file' format for individuals, the facilitated self-assist program allows taxpayers to file their taxes directly with the IRS. However, they have a connection to our volunteer site if they have questions during the filing process," Nash said. "Once the taxpayer contacts us, we will email a link for the self-preparation and instructions on how to use our services if needed." 

For more information on self-assist online, email vita@ung.edu.   

The list of items to bring with the taxpayer to the VITA site will be provided when scheduling the appointment or can be reviewed on the IRS website.   

VITA offers free tax services to people who generally make $60,000 or less ($73,000 for the facilitated self-assist filing). Students prepare 1040 forms with schedules A, B, C-EZ, and D, along with basic tax credits. Federal and state returns are prepared for free while taxpayers are present. Nash reviews all returns with the taxpayers before she files them electronically with direct deposit available if desired.  

"The VITA program is an excellent opportunity for our students to grow both their technical knowledge and client service skills while assisting our community," Dr. Ellen Best, department head of Accounting and Law and an associate professor at UNG, said. "Both our students and community members benefit from this program." 

The students, under Nash's direction, are certified by testing through the IRS. 

Abby Keener, a Master of Accountancy student from Athens, Georgia, earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from UNG in May 2023. She is grateful to provide expertise to local taxpayers. 

"I like that we're able to sit and talk with people and help them get their taxes done," Keener said. 

Josh Sinkoe, a senior from Alpharetta, Georgia, pursuing a bachelor's degree in accounting, looks forward to the experience. Even though he plans to work in auditing upon graduation in May, the VITA program will provide some transferable skills. 

"I like the idea of getting experience speaking with clients in person and growing in that area," Sinkoe said. 

For more information on UNG's accounting degrees, contact Best at ellen.best@ung.edu.