Filing Assistance and Workshops

There are several options you may choose from in acquiring paid tax filing services. Disclaimer: The listing below does not recommend utilizing and is only meant to inform. The final choice is up to the tax preparer in utilizing.

University Workshops

Tax information sessions for Graduate Students
Tax information sessions for International Students
Tax information sessions for Domestic College Students and their Support Networks on the UChicago Bursar YouTube channel

Free Resources

IRS Free File/Tax Assistance Software
IRS Local Office 230 S. Dearborn St. Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm 312.566.4912
Illinois State Revenue Office 100 W. Randolph (Thompson Ctr) Hours: 8:30 am-5:00pm 1.800.732.8866
VITA Volunteers: Individuals who are certified to assist individuals in filing tax returns (free service for those generally with an AGI of $53K or less). Get free tax prep help, or call 1.800.906.988

Paid Resources

Certified public accountants

Not all CPAs specialize in doing individual income tax returns. To find a CPA, go to either American Institute of Certified Public Accountants or Illinois CPA Society.

Enrolled agents

Focus solely on taxes. Trained or worked directly for the IRS. Enrolled agents might work for themselves or in a CPA firm. To locate one, go National Association of Enrolled Agents.

National tax-prep chains

(H&R Block, Jackson-Hewitt) work best for simple, straightforward returns.

Purchased Online Software

TurboTax Free and Low-Cost Purchase Editions

If you choose to use a professional tax preparer, make sure they

Have filed student tax returns in the past
Have passed state or federal certifying exams
Give you an estimated price for services up front, including all fees
Will stand by their work and provide audit assistance or advice if necessary
Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of your refund