Accounting students and members of the Academy of Finance at Williams High School are offering free income tax preparation for community citizens.
The program is offered through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service. The program is coordinated by teacher Mary Margaret Harris.
Twenty student volunteers who have received IRS certification will offer qualified individuals free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing.
In general, individuals making $52,000 or less, people with disabilities, the elderly, and taxpayers with limited English skills who need assistance preparing their tax returns are eligible. A VITA-certified adult will review all tax returns before submission.
Last year, Williams students completed 35 returns, bringing their clients $25,000 in state and federal tax refunds.
The free services will be held in Room 227 at Williams High School from:
■ 4 to 6:30 p.m. today, March 4, 11, 18 and 25 (Wednesdays); and
■ 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 21 and March 21 (Saturdays).
No appointment is necessary. For more information, call 336-570-6161 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.