As daunting a task as filing taxes can be, Milligan College is hoping to offer a helping hand to the public.

Over the next three months, Milligan will be providing their annual free, IRS-certified VITA tax return preparation for the 2018 tax prep season. Registration for appointments is required. The program will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on three Saturdays: Feb. 17, March 17 and April 7.

With a mission of providing servant leaders to the world, Milligan President Dr. Bill Greer said the program is just another opportunity to help students learn more about giving back to others.

“VITA is a practical, hands-on way for our students to make a positive difference in the lives of these served by the program,” Greer said in a statement emailed to the Elizabethton Star. “We’re delighted to have Bank of Tennessee and Carter County Bank as a partner in our efforts to provide this important service to our community.”

For the second consecutive year, Bank of Tennessee and Carter County Bank will sponsor the endeavor.

“We’re excited to have Bank of Tennessee and Carter County Bank serve as sponsors for the program,” Dr. David Campbell, Milligan associate professor of economics and Director of the MBA program, said Wednesday. “They help our students and faculty out in a variety of ways, from providing food to supplies. They’re always great to work with.”

Campbell added the program received its start years ago when a former professor, who previously served as an IRS agent, came up with the idea. Since that time, IRS-certified faculty and students have worked to help thousands in the area.

For 2017, Campbell added the program helped serve nearly 200 within the region.

According to information provided by Milligan, each taxpayer participating in VITA must fill out a questionnaire, with only one completed if filing status is “Married Filing Jointly.”

Campbell added individuals that qualify for the program need to have an annual income less than $64,000. Other qualifications that make someone eligible include having a disability, non-English-speaking citizens and residents older than 55.

Throughout the process, Campbell said it is always a joy watching students have an opportunity to give back.

“Everyone involved in the program is trained through the IRS, but the joy from the students is great,” he said. “They always seem excited to help. Taking part in this program also helps them prepare for their own taxes.”

Individuals wanting to learn more about the program can visit www.milligan.edu/vita or call (423) 461-8700.