Bulletin News

03/31/2010 

The sun shines through the Central New York clouds in Cortland, signaling the start of spring. And with that, comes the stress and anxiety of tax season.

For more than 400 fortunate Cortland County residents, eight SUNY Cortland students have relieved the impending terror brought on by W-2 and 1099 forms.

Aided by Kathleen Burke, an associate professor in the Economics Department, and Barbara Henza of Cornell Cooperative Extension, the eight business economics majors are participating in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA).

The program provides taxpayers with an income below $49,000 with free tax preparation services.

Corey Fahey, a senior business economics major, assists a Cortland County resident with her tax preparation.

“Every person we help is so thankful,” says Megan Gonsalves, a senior from Binghamton, N.Y.

“I see the difference we’re making firsthand,” adds Cory Fahey of Syracuse, N.Y. “I had one woman come in who used her refund to make the down payment for a new car. She was so excited and that was really cool to see.”

As a prerequisite, the eight students took a tutorial course in basic and intermediate income tax assistance. Additionally, they completed a series of Internal Revenue Service tests and received a minimum score on each test. All the students now have a certification in tax preparation that is valid for one year.

“I volunteered because I love working with people,” comments Gonsalves, who helps to schedule appointments and pre-screens the clients. “I think the experience I’ve had will help build my resume.”

Each student is receiving academic credit in exchange for his or her volunteer hours.

“I learned how to use Excel and Microsoft Access,” says senior Tiffany Miller of Schenectady, N.Y. “I’m coming away from this with computer skills and people skills that I need for real life."

Burke addressed senior-level economics classes and sought volunteers.

“The is the first year that SUNY Cortland students have volunteered,” says Burke, “I would love to keep this program available to students in the future.”

Amanda Burke, Evan Wyler, Alice Huynh, Michael Friel and Lauren Riley are participating in the program, in addition to Gonsalves, Fahey and Miller.

Anyone interested in taking part in the VITA program this spring should call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cortland County at (607) 753-5077 to make an appointment.