The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Foundation Tax-Aide program, which was nearly grounded after the global pandemic, will be available at the Public Library of Mount Vernon & Knox County starting in February.
"We've been doing it for about 25 years, but nearly had to shut down after covid," said Gerald Tebbengtebben of Tax-Aide Partnership & Communications. "We've been building the program back up and are now able to serve an increasing number of clients year to year."
AARP volunteers will provide free tax preparation services, by appointment only, from Feb. 11 until April 9 at the library.
Beginning on Monday, Jan. 13, residents can schedule an appointment by calling and leaving a message at: 740.392.2665.
"Because the number of slots is limited, taxpayers are urged to register for an appointment as soon as they can," said Donna Maloney, a local coordinator.
The service is open to anyone, regardless of age or income, but focuses on senior citizens.
Residents do not need to have an AARP membership to receive services nor will donations be accepted.
Last year, Tax-Aide volunteers filed 375 federal and state tax returns in Knox County, saving each taxpayer an estimated $250 in tax preparation fees. Nearly 80 percent of those returns resulted in a tax refund that averaged more than $1,000.
The nearly 60-year-old AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program operates across the country and has had a presence in Mount Vernon for a quarter of a century.
Volunteers, mostly retired professionals from the community, are trained in tax preparation and must pass an IRS test each year to ensure they understand the latest changes in tax law.
