Tax time is right around the corner, and in Stafford County, 17 students are part of the first student-run tax preparation program in Virginia.
The 14 Colonial Forge High School students and three from Mountain View High School have been trained through the IRS’ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program to prepare taxes.
Congratulations to our Forge students who became the first high schoolers in the entire Commonwealth of Virginia to become IRS Certified Tax Preparers! They held their first tax clinic this past Saturday, where the students completed tax returns for free. Great work! pic.twitter.com/yKehyNYfOj
— TheForge (@CForgeEagles) February 13, 2023
The Stafford Schools Work-Based Learning Team partnered with the VITA program to train the students. The program allowed accounting students to train, volunteer, and earn work-based learning experience.
The goal of the VITA program to provide free tax preparation to underserved groups, such as though with limited incomes, those with disabilities, and those who speak limited English.
The students have the same knowledge and took the same tests that adults who volunteer in other VITA programs do, says Sandra K. Osborn, spokeswoman for the school system. Other VITA programs are typically run by nonprofits.
The students have upcoming tax preparation clinics planned for March. There are a limited number of spots, and the appointments my be in-person or virtual. Registration is required, and interpreter services will be available. You may also call 540-658-6115 to register.
Two clinics will be held at Colonial Forge High School from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 4, and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 25.
Another clinic will be held from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, at Mountain View High School.
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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