Many students miss out on receiving federal and state tax refunds because they fail to file their tax returns or claim the credits they are eligible for. If, like most students in Hawaii, you have a part-time job and don’t earn a lot, you could be eligible for a substantial tax refund, particularly if you support yourself financially.

The Legal Aid Society of Hawaii Tax Project provides free tax preparation for low-income persons (must be within 150% of the federal poverty guidelines–for example, $31,224 for a family of four). If you qualify, you may schedule an appointment with a Legal Aid staff member. At the appointment, make sure to bring all tax documents that you receive in the mail in January, including the form you receive from your college showing your educational expenses for 2002. Bring the Social Security numbers for everyone in your household, and if you plan to claim the state low-income renter’s credit, bring the apartment owner’s General Excise Tax license number. Be sure to find out ahead of time if anyone else is claiming you as a dependent.

To schedule an appointment, call Traciann Jeminez at 527-8050.