With April 15 quickly approaching, Iowa State students are scrambling to get their tax forms ready for the mail.

For students who are confused about how to complete their tax forms, there are resources on campus to help them beat the deadline.

Anne Swift, supervisor of the Financial Counseling Clinic located in Elm Hall, said students have several options for help.

“We can answer very basic tax questions, and we have tax forms from the past several years,” she said.

Swift also said current tax forms can be picked up at Parks Library and the Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Ave.

Another option is the Voluntary Income Tax Assistance (VITA) service, which is being provided by members of the Beta Alpha Phi accounting fraternity and the Accounting Students Network.

Roger Murphy, associate professor of accounting and coordinator for VITA, said the group is sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service and has been helping ISU students calculate their taxes for the past 20 years.

VITA helps students “get their tax forms in order and in a timely manner,” Murphy said.

“We can help with simple tax returns, and we have a lot of information available,” he said.

Swift said students should be aware of new tax rulings that can affect their tax credits.

She said there are two main benefits students should know about.

The Hope Credit, which can add up to almost $1,500 in tax relief, is available for freshmen and sophomores, and the Lifetime Learning Credit, which can credit up to $1,000, is available to all college students.

Swift said it is important for students to get advice early if they are frustrated or confused by their tax information.

“Students should go in with a trusted tax adviser or with their homework done so that they can take advantage of the new benefits,” she said. “Don’t wait until the last minute.”

The VITA booths will be open Mondays and Wednesdays in the Memorial Union Food Court from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays near the Student Information Center in Beardshear Hall from noon to 2 p.m., and Thursdays in Parks Library from 7 to 9 p.m.

Murphy said the service is free and open to the community. No appointments are necessary.