DURANT, Okla. (KTEN) -- The Donald W. Reynolds Community Center and Library in Durant has opened its doors for AARP to help seniors file their income taxes. 

AARP is partnering with Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant to offer the Tax-Aide program. Students get to file taxes for anyone who comes in, and it counts towards a school or internship credit. 

"It's very hands-on, so the things we learn in class we can put to real life," said SOSU student Balie Boone. 

The chance to file real tax returns goes beyond these accounting majors can learn in a textbook or iPad. 

"It enhances everything that we learn," said SOSU professor Dr. Rhonda Richards. "It also gives them great experience with customer service and dealing with stressful environment."

In addition to adding to the education of Southeastern students, the service is free to seniors. 

"It's laid out, it's comfortable," said Jim Hutter, who was at the library with his wife getting their taxes filed. "You come in, it's well organized, and it's fast-moving." 

"It really just helps out people that don't really have money to go to a CPA," Boone said. "Also, just the elderly that need just a quick way to do it. It's really helpful." 

Even Dr. Richards sees her students growing through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. 

"We teach the concepts and the material, we test on it, we give homework, but what we see here is real life," she said.

Many couples like the Hutters, who heard about the program five years ago, won't take their taxes anywhere else. 

"We've been doing this for years, since they've been doing it at the senior center and then coming here," said Susan Hutter. "It's a wonderful program." 

"You just come in, take a seat, and they take care of it," Jim Hutter added. "It's great."

AARP will be at the library helping people through the rest of tax season, which has been extended three months until July 15 due to the winter storms.  The library is located at 1515 West Main Street in Durant.