Volunteers needed for Tax-Aide program

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.

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.

This year, Garland County Library and 25 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 1,800 people file their federal and state tax returns

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has grown since its inaugural team of just four volunteers in 1968. The program now in-

volves nearly 35,000 volunteers and serves 2.5 million taxpayers annually at some 5,000 sites nationwide with free tax help. Taxpayers do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this program.

To learn about the volunteer opportunities, visit http://www. aarpfoundation.org /taxaide or call 888-687-2277. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is offered in coordination with the IRS. Locally, call Bill Davidson at 501-463-3794 or email davidsonaarp@yahoo.com.