IRS, AARP are seeking tax-help volunteers

AARP Tax-Aide and the Internal Revenue Service are seeking local volunteers to provide free income tax assistance at sites across Utah.

According to a press release, AARP Tax-Aide volunteers help people — especially those who cannot afford paid tax assistance, such as seniors, the disabled, low income families and those with English as a second language — prepare and electronically file their income tax returns at no charge.

Last year, Tax-Aide volunteers prepared more than 2 million free returns nationwide.

Volunteers attend classes and must pass a test of basic income knowledge in order to be certified to participate in the program. Volunteers are provided materials and support to become IRS certified and will be trained to use IRS tax preparation software to electronically file returns (e-file). They are asked to provide tax help one or two days per week from Feb. 1 through April 15. Organizations, such as local civic or fraternal bodies, educational institutions, churches, social groups and senior centers can also participate or host a site.

For more information about becoming an AARP Tax-Aide Volunteer, send an e-mail to taxmanutah@msn.com.