Free Tax Prep Offer

By Freddy Gompf · The Mainstream
Published Fubruary 22, 2012

Those preparing to file taxes for the first time as students may be in for a few surprises -- some pleasant; some, not so much. 

The good news is that the American Association for Retired Persons provides free tax preparation assistance for students.  Those interested should call 541-492-2101 for an appointment. 

They are already booked through the first week of March, so appointments should be made as soon as possible.  There are five locations throughout the Roseburg area; the Roseburg Valley Mall, the C. Giles Hunt Library in Sutherlin and the Winston, Glide and Riddle Community Centers. 

The bad news is that even starving students have to pay taxes. “Student’s aren’t aware that scholarships and grants are taxable income and they end up owing and it is a hardship for them,” said David Bartlett, District Coordinator for AARP Tax Aide.  However, this can be offset by educational expenses including tuition and books. 

According to Bartlett, students can claim up to $4000 in expenses.  They will receive a tax credit for the first $1000 and another tax credit for 50 percent of the remaining $3000, resulting in a total possible tax credit of $2500. 

If scholarships and grants exceed school expenses, there will be no tax credit.  The credit will go to anyone who claims the student as a dependant.  No credit is given to students under 25 unless they are being claimed as a dependant and the person who claims them gets the credit.

When going to the AARP appointment, students must bring a photo ID, social security card, W-2’s, a 1098T form and statements of the amounts paid for each term as well as the previous year’s tax returns.

Students who did not receive their 1098T in the mail can find it on the UCC website by going to the self service Banner, selecting “student & financial aid,” then “student records and tax notification.”  The statement of amounts paid can be found by selecting “account summary” by term from the student records menu.