About Us
AARP Tax-Aide in Iowa
With nearly 200 volunteers, Iowa AARP Tax-Aide operates 33 sites throughout the state. During 2018 we provided free tax services to over 11,000 taxpayers, filing more than 22,000 state and federal tax returns. Our efforts brought over $40 million in refunds back into the Iowa economy including $10 million in Earned Income and Child Tax Credits to low income families.
Many of our dedicated volunteers are themselves senior citizens who take pride in serving their peers in this manner. They are thoroughly trained, tested and certified in tax law. Our training is focused on the tax needs of low and middle income taxpayers with special emphasis on the unique needs of senior citizens. However, we serve everyone in our community within the scope of our training.
Our sites are located in various libraries, senior and community centers and are generally open one or more days per week. Each site is equipped with computers enabling us to electronically file both state and federal tax returns. E-filing ensures a more accurate tax return and faster processing of tax refunds. Each return is reviewed by a second certified counselor insuring the accuracy of each return.
While we receive support from the AARP Foundation, membership in AARP is not a requirement to benefit from our services or to participate as a volunteer. AARP Tax-Aide helps low- and moderate-income taxpayers file their personal income tax returns. Volunteers are trained to assist in filing the 1040 tax form and basic schedules.
AARP Tax-Aide offers tax return preparation services each year from Feb. 1 through Apr. 15.
AARP Tax-Aide Video (click HERE)
The History of AARP Tax-Aide
AARP Tax-Aide started in 1968 when four volunteers helped older taxpayers complete their tax returns. This was one of AARP’s early efforts to use volunteers to ensure that important services were available to older people. Since 1980, the program has operated under a cooperative agreement with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as part of its Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program. In 1996, AARP transferred the federal funds for and the administration of the AARP Tax-Aide program to the AARP Foundation in accordance with the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995.
AARP Foundation (click HERE to go to the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide website)
The AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide security, protection and empowerment for older persons in need. Low-income older workers receive the job training and placement they need to re-join the workforce. Free tax assistance and preparation is provided for low- and moderate-income individuals, with special attention to those 60 and older. The Foundation’s litigation staff protects the legal rights of older Americans in critical health, long-term care, consumer and employment situations. Additional programs provide information, education and services to ensure that people over 50 lead lives of independence, dignity and purpose. Foundation programs are funded by grants, tax-deductible contributions and AARP.