AARP Tax-Aide volunteers needed

Nov. 11, 2008 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- AARP Tax-Aide, the nation's largest, free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service is looking for volunteers for either tax counseling and/or leadership positions.

Each year from Feb. 1 through April 15, AARP Tax-Aide volunteers prepare income tax returns for low- and middle-income taxpayers, with special attention to those age 60 and older.

Volunteers are especially needed to assist with electronic filing of tax returns. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome. You don't need to be an AARP member or be a retiree to volunteer (or to receive assistance from AARP Tax-Aide volunteers).

"The AARP Tax-Aide program is a wonderful resource for the American taxpayer," District Tax-Aide Coordinator Bob Carvell said recently. "AARP Tax-Aide volunteers get a great deal of satisfaction from helping people deal with the challenges of preparing their tax forms

"If you want to help yourself and others with their tax returns, this is the program for you, Carvell said. "As always, we need individuals who have good computer skills to assist with electronic filing."

Last year, over 32,000 AARP Tax-Aide volunteers helped over 2 million people file their personal income tax forms. The program is offered at over 7,000 sites around the country including senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations.

AARP Tax-Aide tax counselor volunteers receive comprehensive training in cooperation with the Internal Revenue Service. Leadership positions coordinate program delivery by volunteers at sites at the local, state, or regional level or manage specific program activities such as technology, training, and administration.

Although tax training and certification is encouraged, it is not required for many leadership positions. Volunteers are reimbursed on a limited basis for qualified program-related expenses.

For more information about becoming a local AARP Tax-Aide volunteer, call toll-free 1-888-OURAARP (1-888-687-2277) or visit our web site at www.aarp.org/taxaide.

AARP Tax-Aide is a program of the AARP Foundation, offered in conjunction with the IRS.

Newstex ID: KRTB-0337-29460727