Tax-Aide Offers Tax Prep Help in Washington

Tax-Aide kicks off free local tax preparation. Taxpayers can make Contact-Free appointments starting Feb. 12th

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide will begin taking appointments for its free tax preparation and e-filing services, beginning Feb. 12th. Due to the limitations of the COVID-19 pandemic, the traditional face-to-face preparation with a Tax-Aide counselor is being replaced with a Contact-Free approach.

Anyone wishing assistance with their tax preparation needs must first make an appointment. Appointments for taxpayers living in Washington can be requested by calling 888-OUR-AARP (888-687-2277) and leaving a voicemail. A volunteer will call back to set up an appointment. Assistance may also be requested through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide website (www.aarpfoundation.org/taxaide)

All Tax preparation interaction with taxpayers will take place via telephone and video conferencing. The servicer will be offered through April 15 and is completely free. Tax-Aide is capable of processing most personal tax returns with some limited exceptions.

“Tax-Aide is a free service for anyone who needs help completing their tax return and filing it electronically,” said Terri Jones of Vancouver, AARP Tax-Aide Washington state coordinator. “Our dedicated and certified volunteers will provide the same high-quality service as in years past, just in a different way to accommodate COVID-19.”

Tax-Aide is an all-volunteer organization whose tax counselors are trained and certified by the IRS. Last year, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 25,000 taxpayers in Washington before all sites were closed in mid-March.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide operates the nation’s largest volunteer-run free tax preparation service. Volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year to ensure they understand the latest changes to the U.S. Tax Code.

In 2020, 1.5 million taxpayers who used AARP Tax-Aide Foundation received more than $1 billion in income tax refunds. They also avoided any tax preparation fees and pitches for high-interest tax credit or “refund loans.” The service is offered in conjunction with the IRS, and AARP membership is not required.


About AARP Foundation AARP Foundation works to end senior poverty by helping vulnerable older adults build economic opportunity and social connectedness. 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 about AARP Foundation visit aarpfoundation.org