Tax-Aide Volunteers Needed

AARP Foundation is looking to build its team of volunteers for its Tax-Aide program. Tax-Aide is a free tax assistance and preparation program for taxpayers with low to moderate income through the AARP Foundation.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has volunteer opportunities for people at every level of experience who want to stay sharp while giving back. Tax volunteers will complete a tax preparation workshop from the Internal Revenue Service prior to working with taxpayers. There is also a need for grass-roots leadership, on-site greeters, those who are skilled in technology, and dedicated translators who can provide language assistance in Spanish.

Last year in Colorado, more than 500 Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 28,000 taxpayers at 53 tax sites across state, including senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations. They join the more than 35,000 Tax-Aide volunteers across the country, helping millions of taxpayers each year.

“It’s important to be active and stay connected in social settings to stimulate our minds for optimal brain health,” said Morie Smile, AARP Colorado State Director. “AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers are not only helping people within their community, but they are doing all those things that help keep their minds healthy as well.”

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has grown remarkably since its inaugural team of just four volunteers in 1968. The program now involves more than 35,000 volunteers and serves 2.6 million taxpayers annually at more than 5,000 sites nationwide with free tax help. Taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.3 billion in income tax refunds and more than $250 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs).

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service. Its volunteer advisors understand the needs of lower-income older taxpayers. The program was designed with the understanding that retirement or other life changes may mean taxes can be a little more complicated. Its advisors are trained to help ensure that taxpayers of all ages and backgrounds receive applicable tax credits and deductions. Those seeking the services of AARP Foundation Tax Aide do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this free service.

For more information, visit www.aarp.org/taxaide or call 1-888-OURAARP (1-888-687-2277).

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS.