Well, if you’re a Midshipman, an active-duty or retired service member, or a dependent of one, then you are eligible for assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

''VITA is the IRS’ way of helping out service members,'' said Legalman 1st Class Demieka Wilson, Tax Center Manager. ''Through VITA, service members receive IRS training, certifying them to prepare a wide range of tax returns free of charge.''

This is the third year in a row that Wilson has been managing a tax center and said that she enjoys it.

''When you learn about taxes, you are not just learning something to get a job done, you are learning a skill that will help yourself and those around you save money,'' said Wilson. ''You never know how much you can save until you learn, and that’s why I continue to volunteer.''

The program is mainly for service members and their families whose income normally ranges from $40,000 and below. VITA volunteers are able to prepare basic to moderately complex tax returns and are knowledgeable about military-specific deductions.

According to Wilson, the tax return process usually takes about 30 minutes but can last upwards of an hour based on the complexity of the return.

''A benefit of using VITA is that our volunteers can actually call the IRS and fix any mistakes or oversights that may have occurred, said Wilson. ''We also have a one-day turn-around so if there is something wrong we will know within 24 hours.''

Turn-around time for e-filing through VITA is 10-15 days on average from the day the service member files if they use the direct deposit method of payment.

''The major benefit of using the VITA program is that it saves you money and gets you the same return as you would from any other tax provider,'' said Wilson.

Tax season concludes April 15, and amended returns will not be done until after April 15. The tax office closes for the season May 1.

The Naval Academy’s VITA program is still looking for volunteers. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Wilson at 410-293-7015 or dwilson@usna.edu.