Blackburn business students to assist with filing tax returns

CARLINVILLE (Heartland Newsfeed) — The business department at Blackburn College will be offering IRS tax law-certified volunteers to assist low-to-moderate income taxpayers seeking help filing their taxes or are unable to electronically file their returns due to lack of computer or Internet access.

Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 20 through April 13, Blackburn business students who are certified under the Internal Revenue Service’s Facilitated Self Assistance (FSA) program will offer filing assistance for individuals choosing to electronically file their tax returns. These students will be able to act as a tax coach of facilitator, with the ability to answer in-scope questions from taxpayers during the process of completing and filing the return. Eligibility for the free filing assistance program will require taxpayers to have a current email address and basic computer skills. Required tax documentation will include Social Security or ITIN numbers for all adults and dependents, all W-2, 1098 and 1099 income statements, all applicable 1095 statements for health insurance or a valid health insurance exemption certificate, any applicable child expenses and provider tax identification, prior year adjusted gross income and bank information if opting for a direct deposit refund. Under the FSA program, the taxpayer or household must have an income no higher than $66,000. Appointments will be available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and will be held in Room 116 of the Lumpkin Library. Additional information, appointment booking and library directions can be taken care of by calling (217) 854-5663.