AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Sites Open Nationwide, Providing Free Tax Prep to Millions of Older Adults

WASHINGTON— Older adults can get expert help filing their taxes at no cost this tax season through AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program. Now open through April 15, Tax-Aide has served more than 82 million people since its launch in 1968. Last tax season, more than 28,300 volunteers helped over 1.7 million taxpayers secure more than $1.3 billion in refunds and credits. Older adults with low income saved $578 million with the help of Tax-Aide. The program is offered in conjunction with the IRS and open to all eligible taxpayers—no AARP membership is required to participate. 

“Every year, too many taxpayers miss out on credits and deductions they’re eligible for,” said Mioshi Moses, vice president of volunteer programs at AARP Foundation. “Tax-Aide ensures people receive the refunds they deserve, without the cost or stress of paid tax preparation, and with no hidden fees. For millions of older adults, especially those on fixed incomes, a refund can be the difference between getting by and falling behind on essentials like food, utilities and medicine. As new tax changes take effect in 2026, having trusted, IRS-certified volunteers who understand what’s different, and what it means for older adults, will be more important than ever.”

Tax-Aide volunteers provide free tax preparation and filing services to those who qualify, with a focus on older adults with low to moderate income. Volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year to ensure they understand the latest changes to the U.S. Tax Code, including new provisions taking effect this tax season that could impact refunds, credits, and filing requirements for older adults.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers a variety of options to meet the needs of taxpayers. Access to the different types of assistance varies by location and is subject to change. 

• In-Person: Tax return prepared and filed by a certified volunteer in one visit.   
• Drop Off: Leave documents at the site; return is prepared remotely. Pick up and file during a second visit.   
• No Site Visit Required (Internet Access Required): Upload documents online; volunteers work with you remotely to prepare and file your return.   
• Online Coaching: Prepare your own return with remote support from a volunteer.   
• Facilitated Self-Assistance: Schedule a site appointment to complete and file your own return with volunteer coaching.   
• Self-Preparation: Use Tax-Aide’s software to prepare your own return independently.  

Users can find their nearest Tax-Aide location and assistance options through the Tax-Aide site locator. The locator features a Tax-Aide chatbot that can help book an appointment, answer questions about the program, and transfer the conversation to a live agent if needed or requested. For more information, including which documents to bring to the tax site, visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669).