Cal State LA Students Offer Free Tax Help Through April

Tax season just got easier for thousands of Los Angeles residents, thanks to college students who are giving their time to help.

Cal State LA's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program has attracted more student volunteers than ever before for the 2024 tax season. These IRS-certified students are preparing tax returns at no cost for fellow students and community members who need assistance.

The program runs through April 12, offering crucial support during a time when many people struggle with complicated tax forms. Student volunteers complete rigorous IRS certification training to ensure they can handle tax preparation accurately and professionally.

VITA specifically serves people who might not be able to afford professional tax preparation services. The free help means more money stays in the pockets of working families and students instead of going to expensive tax preparers.

The student volunteers aren't just filling out forms. They're gaining real-world experience while making a tangible difference in their community, turning classroom learning into meaningful service.

The Ripple Effect

When students help their neighbors file taxes for free, the benefits extend far beyond a single tax return. Families who save money on preparation fees can put those funds toward groceries, rent, or emergency savings.

The student volunteers themselves gain valuable skills that will serve them in accounting, business, and public service careers. They're learning that professional expertise becomes more powerful when shared generously with others who need it.

For the wider community, programs like VITA build trust between universities and neighborhoods. Cal State LA is showing that higher education institutions can be active partners in solving everyday challenges that residents face.

The record volunteer turnout suggests something important: young people are eager to use their skills to help others when given the opportunity.

This tax season, thousands of Los Angeles residents will file their returns with confidence, knowing that certified volunteers had their backs when they needed it most.