As a result of the efforts of some 145 volunteers, Vermonters saved more than $4 million this tax season, as reported by AARP Vermont. About 10,500 state and federal tax filings were made by AARP Tax-Aide volunteers in this tax season at 62 sites across the state – at no charge to taxpayers. In addition, nearly $500,000 in earned income tax credits were applied to returns. These volunteer counselors also provided tax counsel and advice to hundreds more who visited free sites during the tax season but did not need to file.
“Most of these individuals come back to us year after year for help with their taxes and the impact for these families is significant,” said Dave Reville, AARP communications director. “This is one of those stories that often goes untold, but the impact statewide in tremendous.”
The taxpayers served earned an average income of $18,766, and through the efforts of volunteer preparers, received an average refund of almost $1,300 or about 7% of their annual income’” said Reville. “These funds have a major impact on the household budgets of these taxpayers, and it brings $4 million into the local economy.” More than 7000 hours of work was recorded by the Tax-Aide volunteers this year.
AARP Tax-Aide is the nation's largest free, volunteer-run tax counseling and preparation service. Available to middle- and low-income taxpayers, with priority given to those age 60 and older, AARP Tax-Aide provides face-to-face tax counseling services at more than 60 sites across Vermont, including senior and community centers, libraries, and other convenient locations…even at homes of shut-in residents. Tax-Aide volunteers are trained in conjunction with the Internal Revenue Service and the Vermont Tax Department.
The program is just beginning to plan its training schedule for the upcoming year and new volunteers are needed as managers, counselors and various specialists. "We have the luxury in AARP Tax-Aide of having a volunteer position for just about anybody and everybody. Our volunteers across the country range from high school and college students to retirees – it’s not necessary to be an AARP member to work in this AARP/IRS program," said Reville.