Montana Students Offer Free Tax Help for Low-Income Earners

Tax season doesn't have to mean expensive preparation fees, thanks to Montana State University students stepping up to help their community.

Starting February 23, accounting students from MSU's Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship are offering free tax preparation services for students and community members who earned less than $60,000 in 2025. The sessions run through April 1 at Jabs Hall on campus, meeting twice weekly from 3:15 to 5:15 p.m.

Upper-division and graduate students in the Master of Professional Accountancy program will prepare federal and state income tax returns and answer questions. Free electronic filing is available for most 1040 forms, saving people both preparation costs and filing fees.

The service operates through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which helps people who struggle to afford tax preparation. Appointments can be booked online, though limited walk-in spots are available each day.

Every student volunteer has earned their place at the table. They've passed an IRS tax preparation exam, completed comprehensive tax courses, received specialized training on common tax issues, and have access to federal and state reference materials.

People attending should bring their 2025 W-2 forms, any 1099 forms, Affordable Care Act statements, a picture ID, Social Security cards for everyone listed on the return, and copies of previous tax returns if available.

The Ripple Effect

This program creates wins on multiple levels. Community members get professional tax help without the financial burden, often saving $200 or more in preparation fees. Students gain real-world accounting experience that will serve them throughout their careers.

The MSU volunteers have even expanded their impact beyond Bozeman. They've traveled to remote Alaskan villages to help Native communities with limited internet access file their returns, bringing essential services to people who need them most.

For families living paycheck to paycheck, getting their full tax refund without paying preparation fees can mean covering unexpected bills, buying groceries, or building a small emergency fund. The service turns tax season from a source of stress into an opportunity for financial relief.

Students helping neighbors, everyone learning together, nobody left behind.