Volunteers from the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Foundation’s upcoming NH Tax-Aide Program are ready to provide tax preparation free of charge at dozens of locations. Courtesy photo/AARP Foundation 

The exasperation of contending with tax forms whose penalties for mistakes could be costly can be eased with a free visit to a volunteer tax preparer trained by the professionals of NH Tax-Aide program, one sponsored by the American Association of Retired People (AARP) Foundation.

“The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program provides tax preparation help, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers over age 50 with low-to-moderate incomes,” said Mary Howard, Tax-Aide regional coordinator for New England. “Not only are our services great but we are essentially an all-volunteer organization — more volunteers are always welcome.”

Howard notes that the service is available February through mid-April and that Tax-Aide volunteers are well trained and IRS-certified every year to ensure their understanding of any changes to the tax code.

The 2024 tax season reportedly drew 27,771 volunteers nationwide to help thousands of taxpayers receive millions of dollars in refunds and tax benefits. Volunteers also assist with filings for property tax relief after the income tax season ends.

The Tax-Aide program, well documented as having been established in Florida in 1968 by four caring citizens, is a charitable branch of AARP. The Foundation’s stated goal is to end senior poverty. Tax-Aide contributes by offering access to all the tax benefits clients are entitled to receive.

Tax-Aide assistance sites include more than 40 senior centers, public libraries and other convenient locations whose availability is currently being confirmed. Appointments are required. Taxpayer documents needed during the meeting with Tax-Aide volunteers will be discussed in advance. Membership in AARP is not required.

Howard, who also is the Acting State Coordinator for New Hampshire, cautions applicants that the number of openings available is limited. New volunteers inclined to share in a wide range of duties including administrative and registration support are urged to contact NHTaxHelp.org or to call 211 for New Hampshire.