Building Skills, Strengthening Community

Each year, the Milgard School of Business at UW Tacoma opens its doors to the community through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, providing free IRS-certified tax preparation services to those with limited financial resources.

The program provides a dual benefit. With guidance from Milgard School faculty, staff and alumni, students volunteer their time and gain real-world experience in providing tax preparation services to South Sound residents. At the same time, community members receive reliable, no-cost tax preparation services.

Pierce Transit partners with the VITA program by donating free advertising space on bus routes throughout the county. United Way of Pierce County supports the university on outreach, helping connect more households to these services.

Now in its fourth year, the program has helped return over $1 million to local taxpayers through savings on tax preparation fees and refunds received. For students, it’s an opportunity to build skills that matter. For neighbors, it’s a trusted resource that makes tax season less daunting and more accessible.

The Milgard School’s VITA program is open through the end of tax season, operating most Fridays from 12:30 to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.