AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is looking to expand its team of volunteers for the upcoming tax season. Tax-Aide, now in its 51 st year, offers free in-person preparation and assistance to anyone, especially those 50 and older, who can’t afford a tax preparation service. Volunteers make a difference in their communities by assisting many older, lower-income taxpayers, and their families, who might otherwise miss out on the tax credits and deductions they’ve earned.
Today, in South Dakota, more than 155,500 people over 65 and individuals with disabilities are covered by Medicare for their health care. In addtion, Medicare contributes $1.7 billion to South Dakota's economy.
All charity scams are deplorable, but those pretending to raise funds to support our nation’s veterans are particularly shameful. Last week, the Federal Trade Commission, along with state charities regulators, announced a major takedown of fake veteran charities.
In 2016, there were over 3,600 reported complaints of interstate moving fraud. The offenses include taking goods hostage, overcharges, loss and damage, and insurance issues. The average loss claim was a jaw-dropping $8,000.
There are plenty of reputable contests and sweepstakes out there (including some from AARP), and let’s be honest, winning feels great! But there are questionable characters out there too, who are trying to hook you on winning and reel in the profits for themselves.