Tax-Aide Program Provides Tangible Service to Community

Bruin Notes

Once again, the university’s accounting department provided free tax preparation and e-filing assistance this spring, and more than 100 community members took advantage of the offer.

The Tax-Aide program, overseen by accounting professor Seth Sikkema, is especially geared toward senior citizens, students, individuals with lower incomes, and those with limited English proficiency. But anyone – outside of those whose return is deemed too complicated – is eligible for assistance.

The benefit is twofold: It’s a tangible way the university can provide a service to the community, and it gives accounting students valuable experience in working with the public and fine-tuning their accounting skills. The program also allows for students to bond with professors, as faculty members annually join the effort. Volunteers offered their services to staff four six-hour shifts spanning two Fridays and two Saturdays.