Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa is wanting to make 2019 less taxing by providing free basic income tax return preparation for students, NOC employees and area residents.
Single individuals or families making less than $64,000 a year do qualify for the free service. Certified NOC Business students and area volunteers will be available beginning Thursday, February 7. Taxpayers also have an option to prepare their own basic federal and state tax return using the free e-filing software.
Business Division Chair Cara Beth Johnson said that this a great opportunity for students to provide a community service and gain tax preparation experience. The Cultural Engagement Center(CEC) is hosting the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance(VITA) 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.
Those who are interested 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 and 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 p.m.-4 p.m. and tax preparers are available from 4 p.m.-8 p.m. No appointment is needed to drop off taxes. Dropped off taxes can be picked up the next week. Dr. Rae Ann Cruise, Title III NASNTI Grant Director, said that NASNTI grant supports Native Americans and low-income student success. The service serves low-income students and area residents.
Barbara Nickels is the VITA Site Coordinator and NOC Student Kelli Dollarhide will prepare the tax returns. Dollarhide has taken and passed all of the required IRS tax preparer coursework.
