Free tax preparation services are being offered by student volunteers from the George Washington University School of Business and GW Law ahead of Tax Day.
The free tax clinic will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays until April 13 in the Crain Center, which is located on the first floor of the Duquès Hall, 2201 G St. NW.
Led by Accountancy Professor William Stromsem, about 60 student volunteers, who have been certified by the IRS after passing at least three examinations—return preparation, quality control and ethics—have been working diligently to help community members get their maximum tax refund amount.
The service is offered for those with a household income of up to $75,000 who don't have substantial business, rental or investment income.
Anyone in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood or broader D.C. area who fits the criteria can take advantage of the free service. In past years, the free tax clinic has helped multiple families receive thousands of dollars in refunds.
Stromsem said all the volunteers are committed to helping community members get their maximum tax refund amount.
“Eligible community members get free tax returns, saving them hundreds of dollars, and they may qualify for thousands of dollars in refunds even if they didn't have any taxes withheld through tax provisions like the Earned Income Tax Credit, which is intended to support low-income working families,” Stromsem said. “This can make the difference in nutrition, housing, medical care and overall quality of life.”
Students who are not listed as dependents on their parents' taxes are encouraged to take advantage of the service, as they can sometimes get up to $2,000 in a tax reduction and a partial deduction of student loan interest. Even students who aren't required to file because of low income may receive a refund of taxes withheld by summer employers.
While walk-in services are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, the clinic provides a limited number of reservations that can be made by calling and leaving a message at 202-994-9316.
If you plan to visit, be sure to bring the following items:
- A photo ID.
- Income documents such as W-2s and 1099s for various payments to you, such as Social Security or retirement income, state tax refunds and any investment income.
- Students should bring along their 1098-T on tuition expenses and 1098-E for student loans.
- A copy of last year’s income tax return.
- Records of expenses if you had substantial itemized deductions for charitable, medical expenses, taxes and so forth.
- Payment amounts for childcare and the Social Security number or tax identification number for your nanny if you want to claim a child and dependent care credit.
Form 1095-A if you acquired health insurance through marketplace sites such as Healthcare.gov, DC Health Link or Maryland Health Connection.