3 Helpful Hints for XU Students Filing Taxes for the First Time

Have no idea how to get your taxes filed but have a feeling that that’s an “adult” thing that needs to be done this year? We understand how crazy complicated it is to try and figure out which forms are needed and how to understand vague instructions from the IRS. Here are some helpful hints to get you started. (Don’t even want to deal with it and want some free help? Skip to #3). 

1. First, find out if you have to file.

There is a short quiz on whether or not you even have to file, which can be found on the IRS site. You never know if filing your taxes for the first time may end up in you getting a return and putting some money back in your pocket!

2. Start prepping for filing season now.

Do you qualify as a dependent? Are your parents claiming you? Don’t have the proper forms from your work or school that you need? Now is the time to start preparing… not the day before it’s due. The IRS isn’t quite as forgiving as your super forgiving college professor! Give yourself adequate amount of time to get in everything you need to avoid any potential fines.

3. Completely lost in IRS jargon? Have Xavier’s VITA class help you out!

Did you know there is an entire 3-credit hour class designed to helping you, XU students, elderly and low-income taxpayers out by preparing tax returns for free? Xavier accounting students, sponsored by the IRS, have studied, practiced, and passed certification exams all to serve others during this stressful time.

When?

• February 15th, 22nd, 29th, March 14th, 21st, 28th, and April 11th
• Appointment are made for 6pm and 7pm; first-come first served at those times

Where?

• Cintas Center – Banquet Rooms 1 & 2. Parking is available at the Cintas Center.

Note: In case of inclement weather, the VITA site will follow Xavier University school closures.  If Xavier evening classes are cancelled due to snow, tax return preparation services will not be available.

If you want to take advantage of this free service, you must make an appointment. In order to do so, call 745-2828 or email vita@xavier.edu.

Things you must bring to your VITA appointment:

• SOCIAL SECURITY CARD for taxpayer, spouse, and dependents. NO EXCEPTIONS. (SS# on last year’s return or on W-2’s is not sufficient)
• PROOF OF IDENTITY WITH PICTURE ID  (Example: Driver’s License)
• ALL W-2 FORMS and 1099s and other income and expense documentation.
• LAST YEAR’s YEAR FEDERAL AND STATE TAX RETURNS – if available
• FORM 1095-A (for insurance purchased through the Marketplace under the Affordable Care Act) unless the taxpayer and all dependents were covered by health insurance.

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