Federal Income Tax season has been around since January, and will soon be coming to an end.
This can mean Bakersfield College students may be getting money from the IRS, or they may have to pay money to the IRS and some students will not even need to file.
“Man, I thought I was going to get some money back. I expected at least $500 back because I bought a new car, but I ended up having to pay $750,” said Samuel Mata. On the other hand, Marilyn Cerna said she is very happy with the money she got back. “I’m just waiting for it to come in,” she said.
There are many places to go to get taxes done, H&R Block, Liberty Taxes and many small businesses open during this season, and they offer different rewards to get people to choose them, such as money in advance.
“Yeah, H&R Block offers to give you your money as soon as you file, which is great. That’s why we always stay busy,” said Denise Morales who works at H&R Block and attends BC.
Other places, like Liberty Taxes, promise you will walk out with $50 after you file, but you will still have to pay a fee, and you will get your money in about three days.
“I went to Liberty Taxes because I live here by the school and it’s the closest I found, but they were very expensive,” said student Susan Linger, who decided to do her taxes elsewhere and went to do them online for free at Turbo Tax.
Turbo Tax offers services online or by appointment and after filing the money takes two weeks to come if done electronically, direct deposit, if not it can take up to a month.
Although many students were in a hurry to get their taxes done to see if they would get anything in return, there are still some students who have yet to file, such as Rachel Cardenas. “No, I have not done my taxes. I’m actually worried about paying so I was waiting for my financial aid,” she said.
On a positive note, there are many students who have gotten money back and already have plans on where the money will go. “I am going to take my boys to Disneyland and stay there for two nights. It will be a great family trip,” said Lourdes Ramos, a student mother.
The last day to file your taxes without an extenstion is April 18. The IRS will issue a penalty for those who do not file before deadline.