AARP does not prepare your taxes or file returns for you, but it offers free tax counseling, educational resources, and connections to volunteer preparers in your area.

AARP runs two main tax programs. The first is Tax-Aide, which pairs you with a trained volunteer who can answer questions about your tax situation and help you understand what you owe — though the volunteer does not actually file the return for you. The second is educational materials and webinars that walk through common tax situations for people over 50, like Social Security taxation, retirement account withdrawals, and deductions you may have missed.

If you need someone to actually prepare and file your return, Tax-Aide volunteers can do that too at participating sites, but availability depends on your location and the time of year. AARP also publishes guides on tax topics and connects members to tax professionals through its website.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP Tax-Aide offers free tax counseling and return preparation through trained volunteers at thousands of locations during tax season.
  • You do not have to be an AARP member to use Tax-Aide, though AARP members get priority scheduling at some sites.
  • AARP publishes free guides on topics like Social Security taxation, required minimum distributions, and tax deductions for older adults.
  • Tax-Aide volunteers are trained but not certified public accountants, so complex situations may need a professional tax preparer instead.
  • Availability and services vary by location, so you will need to search the AARP website or call to find what is offered near you.

How AARP Tax-Aide Works

Tax-Aide operates from January through April at libraries, community centers, senior centers, and other public locations. You can search for a site near you on the AARP website by entering your zip code. Most sites offer appointments, and some accept walk-ins, but hours and scheduling methods differ by location.

When you arrive, a volunteer will review your tax documents, ask about your income sources and deductions, and help you understand what you owe or what refund you might receive. If the volunteer is trained to prepare returns (not all are), they can file your federal return electronically. Some sites also handle state returns, but this varies.

The service is free. You bring your documents — W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductions, proof of charitable giving, mortgage interest statements, and any other paperwork related to your income or deductions — and the volunteer walks through them with you.

What Tax-Aide Volunteers Can and Cannot Do

Tax-Aide volunteers receive training in basic and intermediate tax situations. They can help with W-2 income, Social Security benefits, pensions, interest and dividends, standard deductions, and common itemized deductions like mortgage interest and charitable contributions. They understand tax credits for older adults, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and property tax relief programs in some states.

Volunteers cannot handle complex situations like business income, rental property, significant investment losses, or amended returns from prior years. If your situation is complicated, the volunteer will tell you that you need a tax professional and may refer you to one. AARP also maintains a directory of tax professionals on its website if you need paid help.

AARP Tax Resources Beyond Tax-Aide

AARP publishes a free annual tax guide called the AARP Tax Guide for Seniors, available on its website as a PDF. It covers Social Security taxation, Medicare premiums tied to income, required minimum distributions from retirement accounts, and deductions specific to people over 65.

AARP also hosts webinars during tax season that explain changes to tax law, walk through common deductions, and answer questions from viewers. These are free and do not require membership. Past webinars are often available as recordings on the AARP website.

The AARP website has a tax section with articles on topics like whether you have to file a return, how to report Social Security income, and what records to keep. These are written in plain language and updated each year.

Who Can Use Tax-Aide

You do not have to be an AARP member to use Tax-Aide. The program is open to anyone, though AARP members may get priority for appointments at some sites. There is no income limit, though Tax-Aide is designed for people with straightforward tax situations, not high-income earners with complex finances.

If you are over 60, have a disability, or have limited English, some sites offer extra support or interpreters. Call ahead to ask what your local site offers.

Finding Tax-Aide Near You

Go to the AARP website and use the Tax-Aide locator tool. Enter your zip code and the tool will show you nearby sites, their hours, and how to book an appointment. Some sites fill up quickly in March and April, so scheduling early in the tax season improves your chances of getting a slot.

If you cannot find a site near you or if all appointments are full, call AARP's helpline to ask about alternatives. Some sites offer virtual appointments, though this depends on the location.

When to Use a Professional Tax Preparer Instead

If you own a business, have rental income, sold investments at a loss, received an inheritance, or are dealing with an IRS notice or audit, you should see a tax professional — either a certified public accountant (CPA) or an enrolled agent — rather than a Tax-Aide volunteer. These situations require informed beyond volunteer training.

You can find a tax professional through AARP's directory, through the National Association of Enrolled Agents, or by asking your bank or financial advisor for a referral. Costs vary widely depending on the complexity of your return and your location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be an AARP member to use Tax-Aide?

No. Tax-Aide is open to anyone, regardless of membership status. AARP members may receive priority scheduling at some sites, but non-members can still use the service.

Will a Tax-Aide volunteer file my return for me?

Many Tax-Aide sites offer return preparation and electronic filing, but not all do. When you search for a site near you, the listing will tell you whether that location prepares returns. If it does not, the volunteer can still answer your tax questions and help you understand what you owe.

What documents do I need to bring?

Bring all income documents (W-2s, 1099s, Social Security statements), receipts or records for deductions you plan to claim, proof of charitable giving, mortgage interest statements, and any other paperwork related to your income or expenses. The volunteer will tell you what you need once you describe your situation.

What if my situation is too complicated for Tax-Aide?

The volunteer will let you know if your situation is beyond their training. They may refer you to a tax professional or help you find one through AARP's directory. You can also search for a CPA or enrolled agent in your area.

Is there a cost for Tax-Aide?

No. Tax-Aide counseling and return preparation are free. You pay nothing, whether you are an AARP member or not.