Volunteers Needed For AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest volunteer-run tax preparation services

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Foundation Tax-Aide is looking to expand its team of volunteers for the upcoming tax season. Soon approaching its 50th year, Tax-Aide offers free tax filing help to anyone, especially those 50 and older, who can’t afford a tax preparation service. Tax-Aide volunteers make a difference in their communities by assisting many older, lower-income taxpayers who might otherwise miss out on the credits and deductions they’ve earned.

A recent AARP survey of working Californians, entitled “CA Dreaming or Struggling,” reveals that a large percentage of Californians are not ready for retirement; and while they remain optimistic, many are struggling with issues of housing affordability and difficulty in saving for retirement.

“Programs like Tax-Aide,” says AARP California State Director Nancy McPherson “can help.”

“Considering the difficulty many Californians are having making ends meet, a program like Tax Aide, which helps people save every dollar they can, is that much more valuable,” she said.

Tax-Aide volunteers receive training and support in a welcoming environment. There is need for volunteer tax preparers, client facilitators, those who can provide technical and management assistance and interpreters. Every level of experience is welcome. Volunteer tax preparers complete tax preparation training and IRS certification.

Last year, 2,841 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 184,276 people file their federal and state tax returns. The program is offered at approximately 378 sites in California, including senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has grown remarkably since its inaugural team of just four volunteers in 1968. The program now involves nearly 35,000 volunteers and serves 2.5 million taxpayers annually at some 5,000 sites nationwide with free tax help. In 2017 taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.37 billion in income tax refunds and more than $222 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs). Taxpayers do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this program.

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

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.