Files
Download Full Text (3.0 MB)
Abstract
In order to enhance student experiential learning, Franklin University's Department of Accounting, Finance and Economics continued its third year efforts in participating in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in 2016, in conjunction with United Way's Tax Time Coalition of Central Ohio and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The VITA program prepares free federal and state tax returns for low to moderate income taxpayers in the central Ohio community. During the 2016 tax season, 14 volunteer undergraduate students, alumni and administrative personnel were trained and received IRS certification to serve the community; the efforts of the volunteers in the Franklin University VITA program have served 187 clients and successfully helped these clients claim $201,807 in refunds; saving them an estimated $37,400 in preparation fees! Student and alumni volunteers not only had the opportunity to contribute back to the community but also earned hands-on experience working with clients by applying what they have learned in the accounting courses. The poster will demonstrate how Franklin VITA volunteers operated the tax clinic efficiently to give back to the local community and provided the unique experiential learning experience for students.
Publication Date
10-7-2016
Disciplines
Scholarship of Teaching and Learning | Taxation
Recommended Citation
Beachy, Susanna; Gerber, Raye Lynne; Oberle, Jessica; Peng, Martina; and Pierson, James, "Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program" (2016). Learning Showcase 2016: A Celebration of Discovery, Transformation and Success. 51.
https://fuse.franklin.edu/ss2016/51