Tax Clinic
The International Institute offers a vital service for immigrant families through our partnership with the Washington University School of Law Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC). This clinic provides essential tax education and support for low-income individuals who need assistance with their tax obligations in the United States.
The LITC focuses on educating individuals and families about their tax rights and responsibilities, empowering them to navigate the U.S. tax system confidently. Through workshops, consultations, and legal representation, the LITC aims to prevent tax-related issues and help resolve disputes with the IRS. This program is an important resource in fostering financial literacy and ensuring compliance with U.S. tax laws.
Example presentations provided by the LITC include how to apply for the Child Tax Credit, an overview of why it is important to file your taxes, and the difference between W2, Schedule C, and 1099 forms. Clients can also be referred to one-on-one assistance with tax-related issues, after their return has been filed.
The LITC does not help clients file tax returns.
The Washington University Low Income Tax Clinic may be able to assist you pro bono if:
- Your have an active dispute with the IRS
- Your income falls bellow 250% of the federal poverty guidelines ($78,000 for a family of 4 in 2024)
Common topics discussed in LITC’s presentations include:
- General Tax information for new arrivals to the USA
- The benefits of filing taxes on time
- Filling status
- Documents needed for Tax filing
Tax Preparation
The International Institute partners with AARP to provide tax preparation services. AARP are IRS-certified VITA (Volunteers Income Tax Assistance) volunteers who provide tax preparation services to older Americans, low- and moderate-income tax filers, people with disabilities and those with limited English Language skills.
VITA tax preparers volunteers assist with federal and state income tax returns. They also can assist with Missouri’s property tax credit and the City of St. Louis Earning Tax.
Tax preparers are not allowed to assist with “out of scope” returns which include complicated tax matters.
January 20th is the beginning of Tax Appointments and services run through April.
- Monday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Appointments can be made by calling the Tax Phone number at (314) 655-0929.
Priority is given to the International Institute clients and members of the local immigrant and refugee community. However, this is a tax service open to the entire community and who qualifies is welcome to receive this tax service.
There is no cost for tax assistance or filing returns.
Beginning January 20, 2025, at 10:00 am, appointments can be made by phone at (314) 655-0929.
Upon arrival at the International Institute Main entrance, you will be asked to complete a screening form, input your name, and phone number am receive your tax services tag.
Then, a tax greater will help you to complete an intake form. The tax greater will review your form and documentation you brought to the appointment. Once the form is verified and it is confirmed you have brought the necessary documents, you will meet with a tax preparer.
You will be matched with a tax preparer who is certified to prepare the type of return you need. Once complete, you will work with the preparer to verify your return and be provided with a copy of your forms.
Our tax preparers will file your federal and state returns at no charge to you.
Appointments typically run 60-90 minutes though times vary. The tax service team does its best to stay on schedule. Your timely arrival, completion of the intake form, and bringing the correct documents helps us to stay on schedule.
The International Institute does not provided translators for this service. If you are not confident in your command of the English language, please bring a trusted individual to help with translation.
Completing tax returns accurately is a legal responsibility. Tax preparers are not responsible for errors made by the conveyance of incorrect information to the preparer.
Because of our growing new Americans members, we offer translation assistance to assist with basic information. Our tax volunteers are trained to respect and keep tax information confidential. Only Tax preparers have access to IRA tax paperwork. The IRS depends upon honest reporting.
What To Bring
- Identification with a Photo (Drivers License, State ID, Permanent Resident/Green Card, Passport etc.) for taxpayer and spouse.
- Social Security card for every person named on the tax return.
- Income documentation for taxpayer and spouse.
- W-2 forms from every job held in 2024
- SSA-1099 – Social Security payments for 2024
- SSI letter from social security
- 1099-G Unemployment compensation for 2024
- Any other 1099 forms listing income for 2024 (1099-INT, 1099-DIV)
- Form 1095-A: health insurance statements.
- 2023 Federal and State tax return, if you have them.
- Expense documentation for 2024 for every person named on the tax return.
- Any 1098 forms listing expenses.
For example: 1098-E – Document for student loan interest paid. - Records of payments for post-secondary/college education
- Records of payments for child and/or dependent care
- Any 1098 forms listing expenses.
- If you are married and filing your return together, both spouses must be present to sign for e-filing.
- A bank account check for tax refund direct deposit, if desired.
PLEASE NOTE: We do not retain client documents or tax returns. You must bring your information with you each and every year with your file to the Tax Center.
Thank You to our Tax Service Partners
