Austin Community College District (ACC) and Foundation Communities are once again teaming up to offer free tax preparation assistance for Central Texans through the Prosper Tax Help site at ACC Highland Campus. Members of the ACC community can now reserve an appointment. The tax site opens Tuesday, February 4. 

During its first year, the ACC Prosper Tax site prepared 421 tax returns—far surpassing its goal of 250—and helped taxpayers secure more than $616,000 in refunds. This year, the Prosper Tax site aims to expand its impact, providing vital financial services to the community while strengthening ties between ACC and local families.

What: Free tax preparation services at the Prosper Tax Help site
Where: ACC Highland Campus | ACCelerator, Building 1000 | 6101 Highland Campus Dr., Austin, TX 78752
When: Open most Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays throughout the tax season

This initiative, now in its second year, provides free, professional tax preparation services to moderate- to low-income individuals and families, while also offering paid, real-world job training opportunities for ACC students.

Services Offered:

  • Claim your household’s maximum 2024 tax refund
  • File prior-year tax returns
  • Get help responding to IRS letters
  • Complete ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) applications

“The Prosper Tax Help site is an embodiment of ACC’s mission to transform lives and communities through education and opportunity,” says ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “This initiative not only provides essential tax assistance for families but also creates systemic change by preparing our students with real-world, career-aligned skills that set them on a path for long-term success.”

Addressing the Need for Financial Security
The Prosper Tax Help site tackles critical financial challenges faced by many local families. One in five households misses out on the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a significant source of financial support for working families. Additionally, many community members face barriers in navigating tax systems and accessing refunds.

By pairing expert guidance from Foundation Communities with support from ACC students, this program helps clients maximize their refunds while fostering a sense of connection within the ACC community.

Student Employment and Success
In its first year, the Prosper Tax Center employed 11 ACC students, selected from over 113 applicants. These students received training from Foundation Communities’ Prosper Tax Help team and passed several IRS certification exams, gaining invaluable experience in tax preparation.

“This opportunity was transformative for our students,” says Karen Serna, ACC Director of Student Financial Wellness. “Not only did they enhance their technical skills, but they also gained confidence and experience that will serve them in their future careers.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit austincc.edu/prospertax.