Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program

Every tax season, usually beginning in the first week of February, community members, students, faculty, and staff will have the opportunity to take advantage of free income tax preparation services provided by California State University, Bakersfield accounting student volunteers. These students are fully trained and passed certification tests required by the IRS.

Free tax preparations provide not only external community members but also students, staff, and faculty, with complete tax returns in a timely fashion, enabling them to receive proper tax credits and refunds.  Services are provided on campus and by appointment only, every Saturday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm starting February through the end of March at the Business Development Center Room 218A. Those interested are encouraged to call (661) 654-3356 to make an appointment.

Refer to the “Important documents to Bring with You” below.

For additional information, please contact Dr. Benjamin Bae at bbae@csub.edu.

  CSUB VITA 2025

 

What to Bring to VITA

Downloadable Printable copy of REQUIRED items list

  • Picture Identification.
  • Social Security Card or Individual Identification Number (ITIN) Letter for all individuals listed on the return.
  • Passport for International Students.
  • W-2S, 1099s and all other tax-related documents.
  • Form 1095-A, B, C health insurance coverage statement.
  • All 1098-E and T forms for educational expenses.
  • Childcare provider name, address, phone number and Tax ID Number.
  • Voided check if usinh direct deposit for refund.
  • Copy of your first year income tax return.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

  • You and your spouse MUST be present if filing jointly
  • No married filing separately
  • If you want itemize, you must bring:
  1. DMV vehicle registration notice
  2. Property tax bill for residential home
  3. All necessary documents

Schedule An Appointment

The CSUB Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free services to students, staff, faculty, and community members with W-2 income only to prepare individual income tax forms.

CSUB VITA staff meet every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM starting February in the Business Development Center (BDC) room 264A.

Alternatively, you may schedule an appointment by calling (661) 654-3356 (English and Spanish).

For more information, contact Dr. Benjamin Bae at bbae@csub.edu.