TAX AIDE: Want to help?

The local Tax-Aide program is seeking volunteers to help with free tax preparation for 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. All who are willing to work with folks who need income tax help are encouraged to volunteer.

Becky Baeth, a multiyear volunteer, says, “It is the most rewarding experience. We meet the nicest people and it’s a joy to give back to our community.”

Tax-Aide is sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service and the AARP Foundation. The program assists low to moderate income taxpayers with the preparation of their tax returns at no cost to them.

Last year, we had more than 100 volunteers help their neighbors with the program. It would be nice to have that many again this year.

Formal training begins Jan. 3 for new volunteers at the Silver Lake Mall site. Volunteers train three days a week for two weeks and are asked to volunteer at sites on a regular shift weekly beginning Feb. 1. Most volunteers can’t stay away and work multiple shifts.

Volunteers can contact me at 208-765-6589 or at [email protected].

I’m a tax man, and I need your help.

WARREN FISHER

Coeur d’Alene