Get Help With Your Tax Return
Do I Need to File?
Most people who work need to file a tax return (see Tax Topic 350 for detailed information about filing requirements, filing status and exemptions for most taxpayers.) The AARP Tax-Aide program was created to meet this need and to help low- and middle-income taxpayers prepare and file their income tax returns with the IRS, free of charge. Every year, from February 1st through April 15th, trained and certified volunteers will prepare your federal tax return, and each year, more locations are equipped to file your return electronically, allowing you to receive your refund much faster.
Important Information About AARP Tax-Aide Services
- Many AARP Tax-Aide sites are operated on an appointment basis; during open tax season, check the site locator for contact information and hours of operation
- Limited sites are staffed by bilingual volunteers; check the site locator
to see if the site nearest you offers bilingual assistance.
- Answers to tax questions are not available by phone. If you have a
question, please use our Online Counseling
form to ask your federal tax question through this Web site.
- In most situations, it is necessary to visit an AARP Tax-Aide site in person to have your tax returns prepared by AARP Tax-Aide volunteers. However, when needed, arrangements can be made to assist shut-ins and the homebound disabled persons to provide counseling at special sites, such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, etc.
Tax Tip 1:Even if, based on Tax Topic 350, it looks like you aren't required to file, consider filing a federal income tax return anyway; you may be owed a refund. |
Tax Tip 2:Avoid headaches; prepare your taxes early. |
- If email is not accessible, you can contact AARP Tax-Aide by phone at 1-888-AARP-NOW or write to: AARP Tax-Aide, 601 E. Street NW, Washington DC 20049-1214. Please note, during the tax season the volume of mail is extremely high. If possible, please contact us by phone or email for a quicker reply.
- AARP Tax-Aide is a free tax assistance service for low- and middle-income taxpayers, with special attention to those 60 and over. However, if your tax return is relatively complex you will be advised to seek professional tax assistance.
- If an AARP Tax-Aide site is not available in your local area, contact the IRS directly for information about other free tax preparation assistance:
- 1-800 829-1040
- 1-800 829-4477 (tax info and tax refund status)
- 1-800 829-3676 (publications information)