For anyone overwhelmed by the thought of filing taxes, help is available right at Del Mar. The free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is offered at Del Mar College’s Heritage campus from now through April 15 in Viking Hall, room 145.
Del Mar College accounting students trained in tax and accounting software will provide these services every Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to 6 p.m. Services will not be available during DMC’s spring break, which is March 9-15.
Appointments are not necessary, so walk-ins are welcome upon arrival. Services are available to the public for all who meet the $67,000 per year or less criteria.
Filers need to bring tax information, including their W-2 form, other documentation of earned income, Social Security card for everyone being claimed on the return and a form of identification.
“That’s the agreement with the IRS. We’ll give you the software and you open your doors and do this for the public,” said Adelfino Palacios Jr., CPA and DMC accounting professor who oversees the VITA program.
The VITA program is in partnership with the IRS who have provided software to the college to perform these services.
Services are provided by the Coastal Bend VITA coalition, a collaborative partnership by the United Way of the Coastal Bend. And the annual program has just grown in popularity through the years.
“Twenty-three years ago, we did about 75 returns. Last year we did about 1,000,” said Palacios.
VITA Tax Help
WHEN: 2-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through April 15 (closed week of March 9-15)
WHERE: DMC Heritage Campus, Viking Hall, Room 145
COST: Free
INFO: Adelfino Palacios, Jr. at apalaci@delmar.edu or 361-698-1405
