Tax-Aide Seeks Nebraska Volunteers for Upcoming Tax Season

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program is looking to expand its team of volunteers for the upcoming tax season by recruiting interested individuals across Nebraska. Tax-Aide is an AARP Foundation program that offers free tax filing help for those who need it most, especially adults 50 and older.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers receive training and continued support in a welcoming environment. There are a variety of roles for individuals at every level of experience who want to make a difference in someone else’s life. Volunteer tax preparers complete tax preparation training and IRS certification prior to working with taxpayers. There is also a need for grass-roots leadership, on-site greeters, those who can provide technical assistance and interpreters who can provide language assistance.

Last year, 191 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers in Nebraska helped more than 14,000 people file their federal and state tax returns. The program is currently offered in Lincoln, Omaha, Gothenburg, Grand Island, Kearney, North Platte, Sidney, Beatrice, McCook and Valentine; and the goal is to open sites in Nebraska City and Fremont.  Sites are located at senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations.

“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,” said Don Kotrc, State Coordinator for the AARP Tax-Aide program in Nebraska.  “AARP Foundation Tax-Aide addresses the community need with volunteers who are not only helping their neighbors, but also learning new skills and giving their mind a workout as well.”

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has grown remarkably since its inaugural team of just four volunteers in 1968. Nationwide the program now involves nearly 35,000 volunteers and serves 2.7 million taxpayers annually at more than 5,000 sites with free tax help. Taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.41 billion in income tax refunds and more than $240 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs). Taxpayers do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to volunteer or to use this program.

To volunteer, visit www.aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-OURAARP (1-888-687-2277). AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is offered in coordination with the IRS.