AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Now Offering Free Virtual Tax Services Amid COVID-19 Crisis

Modified In-Person Services Also Available in Nine Montana Locations

AARP Foundation is providing free online tax prep assistance through its Tax-Aide program now through July 15. The virtual method serves as an alternative option to the program’s traditional in-person services – services that were suspended at the start of the coronavirus pandemic and that remain on hold in most locations.

Although Tax-Aide provides free tax preparation and filing services to all taxpayers, many of its clients are over 65 — a group considered by health experts to be at higher risk of developing complications from COVID-19.

Tax-Aide will also provide modified in-person service at a limited number of sites by appointment only and with protective measures in place, making it safer for taxpayers and volunteers to participate. Availability of this service is dependent on states and counties’ health data showing downward trends in coronavirus infection rates, host site restrictions, and the number of volunteers who are able to staff the site. In Montana, those sites include Billings, Havre, Kalispell, Polson, Glendive, Deer Lodge, Miles City Roundup and Laurel.

“Thanks to the dedicated Tax-Aide volunteers here in Montana, we are able to help additional Montanans with free tax preparation assistance before the July 15 deadline,” said AARP Montana State Director Tim Summers. “We know this is a valuable service that so many rely on each year and we are pleased that we can continue to make a difference in these nine communities across the state.”

“The coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating effect on older adults’ finances, especially those with low income,” said Lynnette Lee-Villanueva, vice president of the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. “For more than 50 years, we’ve helped lower-income taxpayers file their taxes through Tax-Aide, and in that time, we've seen how even modest refunds can be a lifeline for older adults struggling to make ends meet.”

As the coronavirus pandemic evolves, AARP Foundation and its community partners continue to assess changes in Tax-Aide site status for the remainder of the tax season, which has been extended to July 15. The health and safety of program volunteers and taxpayers remains AARP Foundation’s top priority, and any decisions about re-opening will be made with that in mind.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest volunteer-based, free tax preparation service. The program is offered in conjunction with the IRS, and AARP membership is not required. Volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year to ensure they understand the latest changes to the U.S. Tax Code. Taxpayers who used Tax-Aide in 2019 received $1.4 billion in income tax refunds and more than $200 million in earned income tax credits (EITCs). They also avoided any tax preparation fees and pitches for high-interest tax credit or refund loans.

Visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669) for more information.

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About AARP Foundation

AARP Foundation works to end senior poverty by helping vulnerable older adults build economic opportunity and social connections. As AARP’s charitable affiliate, we serve AARP members and nonmembers alike. Bolstered by vigorous legal advocacy, we spark bold, innovative solutions that foster resilience, strengthen communities and restore hope. To learn more, visit aarpfoundation.org.