Hi, I'm an 18 yr. old freshman college student. So far my whole freshman year I have worked and just recently received my w-2 forms. I was wondering if I would be able to file for a tax return or whatever. I've been paying for part of my own schooling and I have not received any parental help like with groceries, clothes, etc. Would I be eligible for a tax return? And I did, where would or should I go to do this?

I know nothing about any of this. Please help. Thanks!!

If you received a W2 you can file a return. In fact you SHOULD file a return.

Its doubtful though whether you can itemize.

How do I do that then?

How do you file a tax return? I would suggest using one of the free online sites. Like turbotax.com

Thanks. That helps!!

You might also check on campus, there may be people (accounting majors) who help students prepare their returns.

I do have to say, that for an 18 year old college freshman, you are woefully unaware of some of the realities of life.

Scott:

Actually, I think he is pretty representative of college freshman in general.

While many kids get part-time jobs in high school (andthus be aware of the need to file a tax return), many do not.

College is the first time many Americans are out on their own, and it is the first time they need to deal with what many American adults handle routinely.

You learn a LOT in college, not ALL of it in the classroom!