This March and April, students at Lakeland College are turning classroom learning into community impact through free, student-run tax clinics.

Offered to low-income individuals, families, students, seniors and newcomers to Canada, the clinics provide essential income tax preparation services at no cost. Community members can drop in or book an appointment to have their returns completed in a supportive, welcoming environment at the Lloydminster campus from March 19-21 and from April 9-10.

“This is learning by doing in the most meaningful way,” says Janey Decker, accounting business instructor at Lakeland College. “Our students aren’t just studying tax theory – they’re applying it in real situations, working with real clients and gaining the confidence that comes from delivering a professional service. They graduate with experience already on their resume.”

Business student setting up for tax clinics with their computerTwelve business administration diploma students, who completed training with the Canadian Volunteer Income Tax Program, are prepared to complete tax returns under the guidance of their instructors, ensuring accuracy while building valuable hands-on experience. Four of the students are returning for a second year of working the tax clinics, which will enable them to enhance their expertise and mentor peers while supporting the community.

Administrative professional students are supporting the tax clinics by managing bookings and event logistics.

“The clinics are a strong example of Lakeland’s commitment to work-integrated learning, giving students the opportunity to build real technical skills and strengthen client-service abilities, while giving back to the community,” says Decker.

Tax Clinic Details 

Tax clinic participants are asked to bring their government identification, social insurance number, bank information for direct deposit, tax slips and receipts for charitable donations, child care, medical/dental and RRSP contributions. Taxes can be prepared for students, seniors, low-income individuals or families, and newcomers to Canada who meet the required income threshold. To learn more or book an appointment, email tax.clinics@lakelandcollege.ca or call 780.871.5780. Walk-in appointments are available.

The tax clinics will be held in the Allan Markin Room at the Lloydminster campus.

Students preparing taxes for clientsDates and times include:

  • March 19, 4 - 7 pm
  • March 20, 1 - 4 pm
  • March 21, 10 am - 1 pm
  • April 9, 4 - 7 pm
  • April 10, 1 - 4 pm

Lakeland’s two-year business administration diploma offers five majors for students to specialize in, including accounting. The college also offers one-year certificate programs, including administrative professional. Learn more at lakelandcollege.ca/business.