Tulane University Law Students Offer Free Assistance During Tax Season

Students at the Tulane University School of Law are offering free assistance with income tax filing to qualified individuals and families. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program at Tulane Law School will be held at 6329 Freret St., between Calhoun and Broadway, in Weinmann Hall, Room 151, every Saturday from Feb. 7 through Apr. 11 (EXCEPT for Feb. 21 and Apr. 4) between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Clients will be assisted on a first come, first served basis. The last client will be seen at 3:30 p.m. No appointments are accepted.

The law students will file 1040EZ, 1040A and 1040 forms for people with low to moderate income -- generally, $42,000 and below -- who cannot prepare their own tax returns. There is no charge for this service. Interested persons may call the Tulane Law School VITA information line at (504) 862-3518 to hear this information.

Potential clients should bring all relevant information including 2008 W2 forms, 1099 forms or other forms showing deductible expenses or taxable income or interest, student loan payments, expenses of conducting business, total paid for day care and day care provider identification numbers, plus any forms provided to the taxpayer by the IRS. To file taxes electronically on a married joint tax return, both spouses must be present. For direct deposit, clients must bring bank routing numbers and account numbers. Clients must also bring their Social Security card, the Social Security card for any person who will be included on a return (spouse, children), and a photo ID (such as driver"s license or passport).