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CEC and Blackwell United Way Partnering to Provide Free Income Tax Prep

Northern Oklahoma College’s Cultural Engagement Center and the Blackwell United Way are trying to make this year less taxing by providing free basic income tax return preparation for students, NOC employees, and area residents.

Singles or families making less than $64,000 per year qualify for the free service.

Certified NOC Business students and area volunteers will be available beginning Thursday, Feb. 1. Taxpayers also have an option to prepare their own basic federal and state tax return using the free e-filing software.

Cara Beth Johnson, Business division chair said, “This is a great opportunity for our students to provide a community service and gain tax preparation experience.”

The Cultural Engagement Center (CEC) is hosting the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program every Thursday through April 12. The Center will be closed March 22 for spring break. The CEC is located in the library in the Vineyard Administration/Library building.

Interested parties need to bring a photo ID for all filers; Social Security cards and birthdates for taxpayer, spouse, and dependents; W-2 forms; 1099 forms; receipts for childcare costs, education expenses, and other deductions; checking account and routing number for refund; and 1095-A healthcare coverage or exemption.

Drop-offs are available on Thursdays from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and tax preparers are available from 4 p.m. -8 p.m.

Contact Brad Burris at 580.628.6278 or brad.burris@noc.edu for scheduling.

Charlene Flanery, Blackwell United Way director, was instrumental in pulling together the College, community volunteers, and corporate sponsorships. “The Blackwell United Way was looking for a project where we could serve our area residents and partner with NOC. The VITA project is the perfect fit,” Flanery said.

Standley Systems and the First National Bank of Oklahoma – Tonkawa are sponsoring the program.