UK Rosenberg Law Offering Free Tax Prep
LEXINGTON, Ky. (March 4, 2020) — The University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law is once again offering free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, part of the Central Kentucky Economic Empowerment Project (CKEEP) led by United Way of the Bluegrass.
In partnership with the Internal Revenue Service, CKEEP and the VITA coalition provide free tax preparation services to low-income families and individuals, raise awareness about the Earned Income Tax Credit and help participants build assets.
Appointments must be made in advance and are available now through Wednesday, April 15. The clinics will be closed March 16-21 for Spring Break.
Rosenberg College of Law faculty member Douglas Michael, associate dean of academic affairs and Dorothy Salmon Professor of Law, has been volunteering with VITA for almost 40 years and currently serves as the clinic director. Michael helped establish the college’s participation in VITA when he joined the faculty 30 years ago, recognizing the hands-on experience it affords students.
“For students, it provides a good clinical experience, as they must apply the laws and regulations they have learned in real world situations, use interviewing, counseling and problem-solving skills,” Michael said. “The students involved also perform a great public service.”
Last year alone, CKEEP sites helped return $4.2 million to Central Kentuckians.
Current student Cora Alles recognizes how important free services like this are to community members with a low income.
“Instead of paying for a company to file for them, these individuals can come to the VITA clinic, sit down with one of our volunteers, and complete their tax return in under an hour, all without paying any fees,” said Alles. “Most of our clients are college or graduate students who are trying to save expenses, international students who don't know how U.S. tax laws work, or simply do not have extra funds to pay for preparing their tax return each year.”
To make an appointment with UK College of Law volunteers, click here and select “UK College of Law” or “Central Library” or one of the other many locations. Appointments can also be made by calling United Way of the Bluegrass.
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