Volunteer Opportunities Available For AARP Foundation Tax-Aide in Montana

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation's largest volunteer-run tax preparation and assistance service

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

“Many older, low-income taxpayers miss out on the credits and deductions they’ve earned because they can’t afford to pay for professional tax preparation. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide addresses this community need through its volunteers,” said Tim Summers, AARP Montana State Director. “We have a wonderful team of Tax-Aide volunteers in communities across Montana – new volunteers will find them enjoyable and rewarding to work with.”

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 and those who are skilled in technology.

Last year in Montana, 217 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 13,579 residents file their federal and state. Refunds in Montana totaled more than $5.8 million. The program is offered at approximately 32 sites in Montana including senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations.

“As people age it’s important to be active, stay connected in social settings and to challenge their minds in order to maintain optimal brain health,” said Summers.  “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 2.5 million taxpayers annually at nearly 5,000 sites nationwide with free tax help. In 2018 taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.3 billion in income tax refunds and more than $213 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs). Taxpayers do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use Tax-Aide.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in its 51st year, 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.

   

About AARP Foundation:

AARP Foundation works to ensure that low-income older adults have nutritious food, affordable housing, a steady income, and strong and sustaining bonds. We collaborate with individuals and organizations who share our commitment to innovation and our passion for problem-solving. Supported by vigorous legal advocacy, we create and advance effective solutions that help struggling older adults transform their lives. AARP Foundation is the affiliated charity of AARP.

 

About AARP Montana:

For over 40 years, AARP has been working right here in big sky country to improve the lives of the 50 plus. As a non-profit organization, AARP Montana advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. By fighting on issues that matter most to Montana families and providing trusted information, we’re helping Montanans live life to the fullest. Today, over 148,000 strong, AARP Montana is the largest membership organization in the state.  As a nonpartisan organization, AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political action committees, campaigns or candidates. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/MT or follow @AARPMontana on social media.

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