University of Houston-Downtown Offers Free Tax Filing Assistance

The university's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (UHD VITA) program provides free tax prep and e-filing services to the community.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The University of Houston-Downtown is offering free income tax preparation and electronic filing services through its annual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (UHD VITA) program. The program, which runs through April 14, 2026, is available to individuals who generally make $67,000 or less, as well as persons with disabilities, limited English-speaking taxpayers, college students, international individuals, and older adults.

Why it matters

The UHD VITA program provides a valuable community service by assisting those who may not have the resources or expertise to file their taxes on their own. This helps ensure that eligible individuals and families receive the tax credits and refunds they are entitled to, which can make a significant difference in their financial well-being.

The details

The UHD VITA program is offered Tuesday through Saturday, both in-person and virtually by appointment. More than 140 UHD student volunteers have been trained to provide the free tax preparation and e-filing services. The program is led by Dr. Arpita A. Shroff (Chair) and Dr. Hanife Topal (Site Coordinator) from the university's Marilyn Davies College of Business.

  • The UHD VITA program runs through April 14, 2026.
  • The program is closed from March 10-14 for the university's spring break.

The players

University of Houston-Downtown (UHD)

The second-largest university in Houston, serving the educational needs of the city since 1974.

Dr. Arpita A. Shroff

Chair of the UHD VITA program.

Dr. Hanife Topal

Site Coordinator of the UHD VITA program.

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What’s next

Individuals can schedule an appointment for the UHD VITA program online or visit the in-person locations during the program's operating hours.

The takeaway

The UHD VITA program demonstrates the university's commitment to serving the local community by offering free tax preparation and e-filing services to those who need it most, helping to ensure they receive the tax credits and refunds they are entitled to.