I’m Back! I stop blogging last year because I couldn’t find the time with traveling and then, since November, having to get prepared for AARP TaxAide Volunteer Tax Program that I participate in and have for about ten years. It is a great program, even if I have to say so myself.
I serve as a Tax Counselor at the Glens Falls Senior Center as part of the AARP/IRS TaxAide Program. AARP Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service. It is available to taxpayers with low- and middle-income with special attention given to those age 60 and older.
The TaxAide program was started in 1968 with four preparers serving about 100 clients. In 2008, the latest information available, there were 32,000 volunteers serving in 7000 sites; these counselors assisted seniors in the filing of over 2.2 million Federal Tax Returns. Of course, we also do the State returns as well.
Our site has about ten counselors; we did about 725 Federal & State Returns last year. We file all returns electronically, except those few that cannot be filed electronically. Now my question is: How much money do you think we have saved the IRS over the years? First, they no longer have to have personnel to serve these clients and secondly, how much are we saving IRS because they are not dealing with paper. I think it is hugh!
A word about our counselors; the most important aspect about this program. We are mostly retired. All are great to work with and give of their time freely. They are good people! I’m amazed at the number of people who donate their time each year to help seniors get their returns prepared especially the leaders in our region who almost work full-time in this program as volunteers. They are great people and wonderful to work with!
Uncle Bobby, keep up the work, love you.
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