AARP Tax Aide program seeking '11 volunteers

Date: 10/6/2010

GREATER SPRINGFIELD -- 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 federal and state 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.

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, administration or communication.

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 in Western Massachusetts, visit our Web site at www.aarp.org/taxaide or e-mail the local district coordinator, Karen Mernoff at dkmernoff-@comcast.net.

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