MCLA, Habitat for Humanity Again Partner on Free Tax Assistance to Those in Need

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and its Department of Business Administration will once again partner with Habitat for Humanity to offer free tax-preparation services to qualified residents through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program starting Feb. 10.

Through the IRS’s VITA program, MCLA students assist taxpayers by providing free tax-preparation services. To qualify, most individuals and families must earn $67,000 or less. However, there is no income limit for those with disabilities, limited English-speaking skills, and individuals over age 60 with retirement or pension income.

Students work under the supervision of MCLA Accounting Professor Tara Barboza, an enrolled agent with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and a certified public accountant (CPA). According to Barboza, the students participating in this program undergo rigorous IRS training to become IRS-certified over their winter break and then participate in in-person training throughout January and the first week of February.

“Participating in the VITA program is a unique opportunity that will provide students with valuable, hands-on preparation experience,” she said. “They earn college credit, and accounting students can use this credit toward the requirements for the CPA exam, all while volunteering in our community. In addition, students build a sense of belonging, confidence, and soft skills that will serve them throughout their college and professional careers.”

Interested individuals should call Habitat for Humanity at (413) 442-3181 to find out if they qualify and to schedule an appointment. MCLA students will begin to see clients on Monday, Feb. 10. Hours will be Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 to 8 p.m. in MCLA’s Murdock Hall Business Suite, Room 102, located at 375 Church St. in North Adams. The program will continue through April 14.