Cal Poly Accounting Seniors Helped 377 People with Taxes, Generated $347,000 in Refunds

Cal Poly accounting seniors at the Orfalea College of Business have once again made a significant impact in the community by assisting 377 people with their taxes this year. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) clinic, which began in early February and operated for seven weeks, generated an impressive $347,000 in refunds for taxpayers.

Participating in VITA is a part of the senior project for accounting students, who focus on helping individuals who make less than $67,000 a year. Before joining VITA, students must take a prerequisite course in Federal Taxation for Individuals. They then undergo rigorous training sessions on tax return software and must pass an IRS Advanced Exam to earn certification.

The main VITA site is located on the third floor of the Business Building, with additional sites in Oceano and Santa Maria. Students not only gain technical knowledge but also learn how to communicate tactfully and respectfully with clients, especially when discussing sensitive financial matters.

In addition to providing valuable tax assistance, VITA students also engage in community outreach by spreading the word about the clinic. At the end of the program, students write reflection papers and keep journals to document their experiences.

Looking ahead, faculty members are considering making next year’s VITA a hybrid program to better accommodate clients with children. For more information about VITA, interested individuals can visit their website.

Overall, the success of this year’s VITA clinic highlights the dedication and professionalism of Cal Poly accounting seniors in giving back to the community and making a positive impact on the lives of others.