AARP Foundation Tax Aide

Every year, millions of seniors struggle to complete their income tax returns correctly and on time. The AARP Foundation Tax Aide program exists to change that. It offers free, reliable tax preparation assistance to low and moderateincome taxpayers, especially those aged 50 and older.

What Is the Tax Aide Program?

The Tax Aide program is a nationwide network of volunteer taxpreparation sites run in partnership with the AARP Foundation and the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Trained volunteers help eligible individuals:

• Prepare and file their federal and state returns for free.
• Understand credits and deductions they may qualify for, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Senior Tax Credit.
• Navigate complex issues that affect seniors, including pensions, Social Security, and required minimum distributions.

Who Can Use the Service?

Eligibility is straightforward:

• Age 50+or any age if you qualify based on income.
• Adjusted gross income (AGI) $57,000 (the limit may change each tax year).
• Not required to be an AARP member, though members receive priority scheduling.

If you meet these criteria, you can receive free help from a certified volunteer.

How It Works

1. Find a site. Use the AARP Tax Aide locator to locate a nearby office, community center, or library offering the service.
2. Gather documents. Bring your Social Security statements, W2s, 1099s, pension statements, and any other income or deduction records.
3. Meet a volunteer. A trained volunteer will review your paperwork, answer questions, and prepare your return using IRSapproved software.
4. File electronically. Most returns are efiled directly to the IRS, which speeds up any refund you may be owed.
5. Receive a copy. Youll get a printed copy of your completed return for your records.

Benefits of Using Tax Aide

• No cost. Services are completely free, no hidden fees.
• Expertise. Volunteers complete a rigorous training program and pass IRS certification.
• Accuracy. Using IRSapproved software reduces the risk of errors and audits.
• Peace of mind. Knowing a trusted organization handled your return eases stress.

Common Questions

Do I need a computer?

No. Volunteers use their own computers and software. You only need to bring paper documents.

Can I file a state return?

Yes. Most sites file both federal and state returns at no extra charge. Confirm with the site beforehand.

What if my income is above the limit?

Youre still welcome to attend a Tax Aide session, but you may be asked to pay a modest fee for the service. The program encourages anyone who can benefit from free help to apply.

Is the service confidential?

All information is treated with strict confidentiality. Volunteers are bound by IRS privacy rules.

Success Stories

Thousands of seniors have used Tax Aide to claim refunds they never knew they were eligible for. Here are two brief examples:

• Mary, 68, Florida: A small pension and Social Security income earned her a $298 refund after a volunteer helped her claim the Senior Tax Credit.
• James, 72, Ohio: With the help of a Tax Aide volunteer, James discovered he qualified for the Earned Income Tax Credit, resulting in a $1,104 refund that covered his medication costs.

How to Volunteer

If you enjoy helping others, consider becoming a taxpreparation volunteer. Training sessions are offered throughout the year, and volunteers must pass an IRS certification exam. Benefits include:

• Community service hours.
• Professional development in tax law.
• A sense of accomplishment helping seniors keep more of their hardearned money.

Contact Information

For general inquiries or to find the nearest service site, call the AARP Foundation Tax Aide helpline:

Phone: 18002274750 (Monday Friday, 9a.m. 5p.m.)

Or email: taxaide@aarp.org

Take Action Today

Your tax return is more than a form; its a tool that can improve your financial health. With the AARP Foundation Tax Aide program, you get the expertise you need without cost or hassle.