NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and its Department of Business Administration will once again partner with Habitat for Humanity to offer free tax preparation services to qualified residents through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program starting Feb. 11.

 

Through the IRS's VITA program, MCLA students assist taxpayers by providing free tax preparation services. To qualify, individuals and families must earn $69,000 or less. The program also serves those with disabilities, limited English-speaking skills, and individuals over the age of 65 with retirement or pension income.

 

Students work under the supervision of MCLA Accounting Professor Tara Barboza, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). According to Barboza, participating students undergo rigorous IRS training to become IRS certified over their winter break, followed by in-person training throughout January and the first week of February.

 

"Participating in the VITA program is a unique opportunity that provides students with valuable, hands-on tax, business, and office experience," Barboza said. "They earn college credit, and accounting students can use this credit toward the requirements for the CPA exam, all while volunteering in our community. In addition, students build a sense of belonging, confidence, and soft skills that will serve them throughout their college and professional careers."

 

Interested individuals should call Habitat for Humanity at (413) 442-3181 to determine eligibility and schedule an appointment. MCLA students will begin seeing clients on Monday, February 11, 2025. Hours will be Mondays and Wednesdays from 4-8 p.m. in MCLA's Murdock Hall Business Suite, Room 102, located at 375 Church St. in North Adams. The program will continue through April 15, 2026.