Administered by the AARP Foundation, Tax-Aide allows those aged 60+ and low/middle income taxpayers to access free tax preparation assistance, counseling and advice both online and offline. The program is composed of around 34,600 volunteers, all of whom have been IRS trained, and gives help on federal, state and local tax returns to over 2.6 million people every year. What is AARP Tax-Aide and how does it work?
What is AARP Tax-Aide?
Established in 1968, this is now the largest tax assistance and preparation program run by volunteers in the country. Over the years, Tax-Aide has helped approximately 50 million people in need of counseling, preparation and filing services for federal, state and local taxes. Although the emphasis here is on the over 60s, those on low or middle incomes may also be able to use the service at no cost.
What Does Tax-Aide Offer?
During the tax season, the program runs free one-on-one counseling, preparation, filing and advice centers at various locations. Those in need of assistance can get help to prepare and file basic tax forms (i.e 1040, 1040A and 1040EZ) and standard schedules. It is also possible to e-file at most (but not all) centers. The AARP website runs a year-round advice service for federal tax issues.
When is the AARP's Tax-Aide Service Available?
The one-on-one Tax-Aide program runs from February 1st-April 15th every year. There are approximately 6,500 sites used as centers. These are typically situated in accessible locations such as senior and community centers and in libraries. Bear in mind that not all centers will be open every day during the program dates and appointments may need to be set up in advance. The online advice/question submission service runs all year round.
Where to Get Free AARP Tax Preparation, Assistance and Filing Help
The easiest way to find a Tax-Aide center is to use the AARP's Tax-Aide site search. This shows local centers by zip code or by coordinator ID. Search results will give addresses and contact telephone numbers and other useful information such as opening days/hours, e-filing availability, languages supported and whether an appointment is necessary.
Those that need help outside of the program's operating dates can access FAQs on the AARP's website. It is also possible to use this service to submit an online question to Tax-Aide volunteers, which should be answered within three to five business days.
Why Use Tax-Aide?
This is a free and reputable program manned by trained volunteers. It could give useful advice and guidance for those that need a little extra help or that prefer to be guided through the tax preparation and filing process. Using centers that can e-file may also be useful for people who don't have easy access to a computer or who are uncomfortable filing tax returns online without assistance.
Source: AARP.org. Accessed online 21st December 2010.
Carol Finch - Carol Finch is the Topic Editor for Retirement Planning, Budgeting, E-Commerce & Technical/Business Writing on Suite101.
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