MOUNT OLIVE – As tax season approaches, the University of Mount Olive is once again offering a valuable service to residents across Mount Olive and surrounding communities: free, professional tax preparation through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, commonly known as VITA.
Led by Tillman School of Business faculty and trained student volunteers, the UMO VITA program provides no-cost tax return preparation for eligible taxpayers while giving students meaningful, hands-on experience in accounting and financial services. The program has steadily grown since its inception in 2018. In 20025, UMO students prepared more than 100 tax returns.
“The VITA program at UMO seeks to serve the surrounding community while also helping our students build valuable tax preparation skills,” said Assistant Professor of Accounting Waylon Woodall, who serves as site partner for the program. “For taxpayers who qualify, our students prepare their tax returns for free, and every return is reviewed to ensure it is complete and accurate. It’s a way for our students to grow in both technical skill and a heart for service.”
Free tax preparation fills a critical gap in rural communities where many families lack access to affordable professional tax services. By offering VITA, UMO helps ensure local residents can file accurate returns, understand available credits, and navigate tax season with confidence.
The program also strengthens the University’s connection to the region it serves. Many VITA clients return each year, and word-of-mouth referrals have fueled much of the program’s growth. “The feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive,” Woodall said. “People trust the service, and that trust is something we take very seriously.”
For community members, the VITA process is straightforward and secure. Taxpayers begin by dropping off required tax documents at the VITA site. Student volunteers conduct an intake interview, review paperwork for completeness, and prepare returns using IRS-approved tax software. Each return then undergoes a mandatory quality review by a certified reviewer, Dr. Tanya Smith, before being finalized and electronically filed. Taxpayers receive copies of their completed returns and original documents.
“The quality review step is central to the program’s success,” said Smith. “It ensures accuracy, protects taxpayers, and upholds IRS standards. Strict confidentiality rules and required IRS training further safeguard sensitive financial information.”
While VITA provides an essential public service, it also reflects UMO’s commitment to experiential learning. Students majoring in accounting, finance, and related business fields complete IRS training and certification before working with clients, including instruction in tax law, ethics, and professional conduct.
By working directly with community members, students gain real-world insight into the responsibilities of tax professionals. They learn to apply classroom concepts, communicate clearly with clients, meet deadlines, and handle confidential information with integrity.
“Employers regularly tell us that VITA experience stands out on resumes,” Woodall said. “Students leave feeling more prepared for internships and full-time roles, and that confidence pays dividends well beyond one tax season.”
This year’s VITA team is made up of accounting majors at various stages of their academic journeys. Senior Kayla Jackson brings advanced experience to the program. Junior students include Kacey Gore, Tanya Granholm, Melissa Montijo, and Yaneli Sanchez. Sophomore participants Raul Ruiz, Kayden Richter, Pablo Salazar, Titus Tanui, and Charlee Thomas, are all gaining early professional experience.
For individuals considering using the VITA service for the first time, Woodall has advice. “Know that you’ll be treated with respect, professionalism, and care,” he said. “Our trained volunteers follow strict IRS standards, and your information stays confidential. We’re here to make tax season easier and help you receive the credits and refunds you’re entitled to, at no cost. By allowing us to serve you, you’re also helping educate the next generation of professionals.”
