Tax season is officially under way, and Hawai‘i residents can count on AARP Tax-Aide volunteers to help reduce tax stress. Beginning Feb. 1, AARP-trained and IRS-certified volunteers will be available at 45 locations throughout the state to help taxpayers prepare basic federal and state forms.
AARP Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest, free, volunteer-run tax preparation and assistance service for low- and moderate-income taxpayers, with special attention to people age 60 and older. The program helps the most vulnerable people build and protect their assets through free income tax preparation. Since 1980 the program has operated under a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. Last year in Hawai‘i more than 200 AARP Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 10,000 taxpayers across the state. They join more than 35,000 volunteers across the country, helping millions of taxpayers each year.
AARP Tax-Aide volunteers can also provide counseling services to people who are unable to leave their homes. In Hawai‘i last year, volunteers visited home-bound residents, including individuals in nursing homes. One-on-one, on-site tax counseling is available now through April 15. Foreign language assistance is also available at select locations.
AARP Tax-Aide is a service of the AARP Foundation, AARP’s affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide security, protection and empowerment for older persons in need. ■
For locations and times, please call 843-1906 or visit the Information Center on O‘ahu at 1199 Dillingham Blvd, #A106, Honolulu, HI. To find the site closest to your home, call toll-free 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888- 227-7669) or visit www.aarp.org/taxaide.
