Lamar University lending tax filers a hand

A recent grant from the electric film Entergy Texas will allow Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, to provide free tax services to filers with low to moderate incomes.

The services, which can be arranged at several of the university's local tax centers, are aimed at financial education and economic development, with the overall goal of promoting awareness of the earned income tax credit.

Norman Bellard, assistant to the president for community relations and the athletics program liaison, said the volunteers who man the centers are IRS-trained and certified.
 
“The e-filing system is as efficient as any qualified tax preparer or tax preparation software," he said.

The service is free for anyone earning less than $54,000 annually.

The Lamar University outreach program is available for families, individuals, senior citizens, students, and non-English speakers.
 
Sessions begin in February and will be held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Neighborhood Resource Center, 2850 Gulf St., and on Mondays from 5 to 8 p.m. at Catholic Charities, 2780 Eastex Freeway.