AARP Foundation seeks local volunteers for free tax program

The local AARP Foundation is again providing free tax assistance and preparation this year for taxpayers with low to moderate income through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in its 46th year, is the nation's largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention to the older population. Persons do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service.

In 2014, some 35,000 compassionate volunteers at more than 5,000 sites provided 2.6 million people with free tax help. Taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.3 billion in income tax refunds and mover the $257 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs).

Last tax season, the local tax assistance program helped more than 125 taxpayers.

The service has been provided by a small group of dedicated volunteers. More volunteers are needed to keep this program going year after year.

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide thrives due to the remarkable efforts of its volunteer base. With nearly 50 million low- to moderate-income taxpayers helped and growing, there are always opportunities for new volunteers. Lack of experience should not stop anyone from volunteering.

Tax volunteers must complete a tax preparation workshop from the Internal Revenue Service prior to working with taxpayers.

For more information, visit www.aarp.org/taxaide or call 1-888-687-2272. Persons can also contact the local site coordinator, Karen Shillings, at 653-6577 or karensrun5@gmail.com.