FLORENCE, SC (WBTW) – It’s that time of year again, it’s tax season. With taxes due on April 15th, many of you are trying to figure out the best way to file your taxes without spending too much money.
Students at Francis Marion University are offering free methods for people in the Pee Dee.
Professors are there to help, but the students are well trained by both the university and the IRS for what’s called the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program.
Leaders say the best part about the program is it’s a partnership with the IRS. The IRS owns the software and helps with the training, so you know you’re getting the best help.
John Altman says he’s now unemployed, and when he heard about the program, he knew it was the best option for him.
“The economy is really bad right now. It’s hard to find jobs, and if you don’t have a job, this saves a lot of money,” said Altman.
Tax experts say the average cost of hiring an accountant is $273, and while companies like H&R Block and Turbo Tax have free federal filing, both have additional steps after the filing process.
Dr. Brad Johnson has been part of the Francis Marion tax program for ten years, and he says the program has a better filing system in getting files to the IRS so all information is secure.
“A lot of people are not familiar with the tax rules, and we are so we can help them understand, which is part of the process,” said Johnson.
The program will be open to the public every Wednesday night from 5-9 pm until April 13th at FMU in room 259C in Founders Hall.