We have all started receiving W2s and charity receipts, which means tax season is upon us. Fortunately for East Dallas, Woodrow Wilson’s Academy of Finance has a free tax site on campus to assist in all tax needs.
This is the school’s third year to run a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program with the IRS, and each year business has grown 50 percent, according to academy director Dionne Hilliard. The students receive certifications that allow them to complete basic level tax returns. They are trained in the code of conduct, intake and quality review, and take a basic-level certification test.
Former IRS employee Barbara Rogers, who has been volunteering for 20 years, comes to teach the students how to file tax returns. Past students have returned to school to help teach the class as well.
“Clients should bring previous year’s returns and all income documents for 2016,” Hilliard says. This includes W2s, tax statements, pensions, and other financial information. “We are running this program to give back to our community. So many of our students are working for the first time and it allows them to file their taxes for the first time at no cost.”
Students receive valuable tax experience and community service hours for their work after school and on the weekends. “Spread the word. We are open for all staff, family, friends, and the community,” Hilliard said.
The tax site can be found in room 3111 after school from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturdays by appointment. To set up an appointment,email dhilliard@dallasisd.org.
