CARIBOU — The AARP Foundation is looking to expand its team of local volunteers for the upcoming tax filing season by recruiting interested individuals.
Tax-Aide is an AARP Foundation program that, during the tax season, offers free tax filing help to those who need it most, especially to adults 50 and older, said local AARP counselor Mike Ayers of Caribou.
Volunteers will receive training and continued support in a welcoming environment. There are a variety of roles for individuals with every level of experience who want to make a difference in someone’s life. Volunteer tax preparers complete tax preparation training and IRS certification prior to working with taxpayers.
Other volunteers may serve as greeters at tax preparation sites, as technical assistants or interpreters.
Last year, Maine Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 25,000 taxpayers with their tax questions and return preparation for both federal and state income tax returns. The program is offered at 70 locations throughout Maine, including senior centers, libraries and other locations, and is free to all eligible taxpayers, including free electronic filing.
“Many older, low-income taxpayers miss out on the credits and deductions they’ve earned because they cannot afford to pay for professional tax preparation,” said Joan Jagolinzer, former state coordinator for AARP Tax-Aide. “AARP Foundation Tax-Aide addresses the community need with volunteers who are not only helping their neighbors, but also learning new skills and giving their mind a workout as well.”
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Ayers via e-mail at mandmayers@earthlink.net or visit www.aarpfoundation/org/taxaide or call 1 (888) 687-2277.
