NOC hosting free tax preparation services starting Feb. 7

TONKAWA —  Northern Oklahoma College is trying to make this year less taxing by providing free basic income tax return preparation for students, NOC employees, and area residents.

Singles or families making less than $64,000 per year qualify for the free service.

Certified NOC Business students and area volunteers will be available beginning Thursday, Feb. 7.   Taxpayers also have an option to prepare their own basic federal and state tax return using the free e-filing software.

Cara Beth Johnson, Business division chair said, “This is a great opportunity for our students to provide a community service and gain tax preparation experience.”

The Cultural Engagement Center is hosting the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program every Thursday through April 11.   The CEC will be closed March 18-22 for spring break.  The CEC is located in the library in the Vineyard Administration/Library building.

Interested parties need to bring a photo ID for all filers; Social Security cards and birthdates for taxpayer, spouse, and dependents; W-2 forms; 1099 forms; receipts for childcare costs, education expenses, and other deductions; checking account and routing number for refund; and 1095-A, -B, or -C healthcare coverage or exemption.

It is necessary to make an appointment by contacting Cara Beth Johnson at (580) 362-6340 or [email protected].  Drop-offs are available on Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. and tax preparers are available from 4 to 8 p.m.   No appointment is needed to drop off taxes.  Dropped off taxes can be picked up the next week.

Dr. Rae Ann Kruse, Title III NASNTI Grant Director, is so appreciative to have NOC, community volunteers, and corporate sponsorships.

“The NASNTI grant supports Native American and low-income student success.  This project serves our low-income students as well as area residents,” Kruse said.

Barbara Nickels is the VITA site coordinator and NOC student Kelli Dollarhide will prepare the tax returns.  She has taken and passed all the required IRS tax preparer coursework.

First National Bank of Oklahoma – Tonkawa, Blackwell United Way, IRS, and NOC are sponsoring the program.