AARP Foundation Seeks Volunteers For Free Tax Assistance And Preparation Program

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Sep 09, 2014, 12:54 ET

CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- This year, AARP Foundation is again providing free tax assistance and preparation for taxpayers with low to moderate income through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in its 46^thyear, is the nation's largest free tax assistance and preparation service,giving special attention the older population. You do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service.

"AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide program helps thousands of individuals, in Illinois and across the nation, that might not otherwise have access to tax preparation services," said Bob Gallo, AARP Illinois State Director. "AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide program is run by trained volunteers, who make an immeasurable impact on the individuals and communities they serve."

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has grown tremendously since its inaugural team of just four volunteers in 1968. In 2014, 35,000 compassionate volunteers at over 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 more than $257 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs).

Last year, 1,123 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 83,000 Illinoisans file their federal and state tax returns. The program is offered at approximately 200 sites in Illinois including senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations.

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 shouldn't stop anyone from volunteering. Tax volunteers must complete a tax preparation workshop from the Internal Revenue Service prior to working with taxpayers. There is also a need for grass-roots leadership on-site greeters, and those who can provide language assistance in Spanish, Mandarin or Cantonese.

For more information, visit www.aarp.org/taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669). AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS.

SOURCE AARP Illinois