With tax season just around the corner, Bemidji State University prepares to host its annual VITA tax program.  

Bemidji State University’s Department of Accountancy is set to host its annual tax assistance program beginning Feb. 21. With support from the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, the university is prepared to offer free and accessible assistance to eligible tax filers. 

The program aims to provide assistance for taxpayers making under $60,000 a year, the elderly, individuals with disabilities and those who are learning English.  

Under the direction of Jeffery Everhart, assistant professor of accountancy, and Dr. Sandra Kranz, professor of accountancy, the following students in the Tax II course have been certified to help throughout the filing process:  

• Drew Benes, business administration and accounting, Aurora, Minn. 
• Chase Beucler, accounting, Big Lake, Minn. 
• Brooke Fredrickson, accounting and business administration, Thief River Falls, Minn. 
• Tristan Hamann, accounting and pre-law, Bemidji, Minn. 
• Oren Kero, accounting, Hibbing, Minn. 

This is a unique opportunity for accounting students to apply their knowledge and use their skills to make a positive impact in BSU’s student community and beyond.  

The VITA program will be offered starting Feb. 21, 2024. It will continue to offer its services on campus in Memorial Hall 250. Taxpayers can receive assistance every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. until April 10 – excluding March 6. 

To continue the program’s commitment to accessibility, community members and students can complete their taxes on a walk-in basis. Walk-ins must be no later than 5:30 p.m. 

Learn More

• IRS.gov: Free Tax Return Preparation for Qualifying Taxpayers