Students offer

free tax prep Volunteers assist with VITA program

Business 10 students have learned the fundamentals of how to prepare state and federal taxes, and will offer free tax preparation Saturday, April 4, for anyone with an annual income lower than $50,000.

Instructor Norachai Chawareewong has taught the class for two years. The free tax service has been offered by the The Volunteer Income Tax Assistant (VITA) program.

“I really want to see this program grow,” Chawareewong said. “You cannot sign up for this class twice. Many of the preparers are returning students and cannot re-enroll, and they have taught themselves to qualify for the advance certificate provided by the IRS.”

Around eight students will prepare the taxes with the help of experienced volunteers for around 50 people on a first-come, first-served basis.

“It’s really rewarding,” said accounting major Helen Jung Suh. “They are really happy because some people actually get money, thousands, back.”

Travel agent Jackie Zhuang signed up for Chawareewong’s class to gain experience in a new field, and to have something else to fall back on.

“I was just thinking of getting a side job and expanding myself in another kind of field,” Zhuang said. “I have a small business myself, but I don’t know how long it’s going to last.”

Tax filers arrive at 9 a.m. with W-2 forms in-hand to help ensure a smooth process and allow for the largest refund, Chawareewong said.

The VITA program’s free tax filing is Saturday, April 4, from 9 a.m. to noon in BUS 3218.

-Compiled by Seth Perlstein

Spring break April 6-10, next Roundup April 22

There will be no classes the week of April 6 for spring break.

The next Roundup issue will hit newsstands after the break April 22.

What are your spring break plans? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter with #piercespringbreak

ASO election April 2123, first-ever e-ballot

The Associated Students Organization’s (ASO) election is set for April 21 to 23, and will use electronic balloting for the first time.

Links to the electronic ballots will be emailed on April 21, according to Michael McGee, ASO treasurer.

The candidates will introduce themselves at the Day of Politics Thursday, April 2, from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Great Hall, and will debate in the ASO April 16 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

STOMP at UCLA PRESENTS

Who will you vote for when the candidates are announced? Tell us on Facebook and Twitter with #pierceaso