NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and its Department of Business Administration are partnering with Habitat for Humanity to offer free tax preparation services to local residents in need through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. 

 

MCLA will offer in-person, drop-off, and virtual tax assistance to qualified taxpayers beginning February 6.  

 

Individuals can call Habitat for Humanity at (413) 442-3184 to schedule an appointment or drop off tax documents at the site and a certified volunteer will work to prepare the tax return. Drop-off hours occur on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4-8 p.m. in MCLA's Murdock Hall. Appointments are not required for drop-off services but are required for in-person services. The program runs through April 12, 2023. 

 

Habitat for Humanity administers VITA, a program of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), to assist taxpayers with disabilities or limited English speaking skills, those 60 years of age or older, or individuals who make $60,000 or less a year. MCLA students assist with both basic and advanced returns, including those with itemized deductions.  

 

According to MCLA Professor of Accounting Tara Barboza, an enrolled agent with the United States Department of the Treasury and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), the students who participate in this program undergo rigorous training, become IRS certified, and work under her supervision.  

 

"Participating in the VITA program is a unique opportunity that will provide students with valuable, hands-on preparation experience," she said.

 

Students earn college credit by participating in the program and accounting students can use the credit toward requirements for the CPA exam.