AARP Tax-Aide program seeking volunteers

AARP’s Tax-Aide program is seeking volunteers to help with tax preparation at no cost for low- to moderate-income taxpayers who live in Kootenai and Shoshone counties.

There is no need to have prior tax preparation experience as training is provided and help is always available. Even folks who are not good with computers or math, but willing to work with folks who need help are encouraged to volunteer.

“It is the most rewarding experience. We meet the nicest people and it’s a joy to give back to our community,” said Betsy Bethke, a multi-year volunteer.

Two years ago, the program had more than 100 volunteers helping with this program. Last year, the effort struggled with only 60 volunteers.

An orientation is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 23. in the Community Room at Silver Lake Mall. Formal training begins Jan. 3 at the Silver Lake Mall site, three days a week for two weeks and will have as much on-site team support as needed during tax season.

Volunteers can contact Warren Fisher, of Coeur d’Alene, at (208) 765-6589 or at warrenfisher@prodigy.net

Tax-Aide is sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service and the AARP Foundation.