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By: Andrea Sears
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Tax-filing season is under way and free help is available to guide you through changes in the tax codes and filing your return.
The AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program is the nation’s largest volunteer-run free tax preparation service.
Last year it helped more than 108,000 Pennsylvanians claim more than $76,000 in federal refunds and more than $5.4 million in Earned Income Tax Credits.
According to Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania state director, some 1,500 trained volunteers are ready to give in-person tax help across the state again this year.
“The program is offered at approximately 283 sites around the Commonwealth at senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations within the community,” he states.
Johnston-Walsh says AARP tax help is available to anyone regardless of age. Information about locations and what documents to bring is available at aarpfoundation.org/taxhelp.
Johnston-Walsh says tax assistance given at Tax-Aide sites is up to date on the latest changes in the tax laws.
“Our volunteers are trained and IRS certified every year to ensure that they understand the latest changes to the U.S. tax code,” he stresses. “So, you could be sure that your taxes are being done by qualified individuals.”
Johnston-Walsh notes that filing income taxes can be stressful and other tax-help options may not work for everyone.
“Do-it-yourself software can be confusing and paid tax-preparation services cost money, but you might not be able to afford that,” he states. “So, AARP is making your life easier.”
AARP Tax-Aide is available through April 15.
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