Ivy Tech Community College’s Bloomington campus, in coordination with the Internal Revenue Service and the City of Bloomington’s Community and Family Resources, are providing free tax information and assistance in electronic filing of federal and Indiana state tax returns for low-to-moderate income households through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
“We completed 755 returns last season at Ivy Tech-Bloomington,” said Steve Englert, accounting program chair. “We estimate that the community saved over $900,000 in tax preparation fees through Free Community Tax Services.”
Ivy Tech students enrolled in income tax accounting classes prepare taxes for free as part of their service learning project. The project provides students with practical experience preparing taxes under the guidance of Ivy Tech accounting faculty, while offering a necessary service to the community.
Volunteers involved in preparing taxes must pass certification tests, which include standards of conduct, basic tax law, and advanced tax law. A total of 18 Ivy Tech income tax students attended tax law and software training, while a total of 68 volunteers from the community also participated.
Free tax preparation assistance at Ivy Tech-Bloomington began on Tuesday, January 27 and will go through March 7 by appointment only. Appointments can be made on Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from Noon to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the main campus in the Connie and Steve Ferguson Academic Building in room B201.
Those seeking assistance will need to bring a valid picture identification for taxpayer and spouse, Social Security Cards and birthdates for self, spouse, and dependents, all W-2, W-2G, and 1099 forms related to income received during the year. If filing jointly, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms.
To make an appointment for VITA at Ivy Tech-Bloomington, call (812) 332-1559, ext. 0.
Ivy Tech’s Bloomington campus is located at 200 Daniels Way on the west side of town.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
