Foundation provides free tax assistance and preparation

Press release

Tax season is here, and people in need of assistance in filing their taxes can turn to AARP Foundation Tax Aid.

From Feb. 5 through the tax season, volunteers, trained in cooperation with the IRS, offer free tax assistance and preparation for people of all ages with low to moderate income with special attention to people 60 and older.

The volunteers are knowledgeable about many aspects of tax law, including the Affordable Care Act and its impact on tax returns. The volunteers can help people prepare and electronically file their federal and Montana returns, usually in one visit.

People who are not sure if they have to file, want to know if they qualify for Montana’s Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit or just have questions about their taxes can contact AARP Foundation Tax Aid.

The service is free. Last year alone, 177 AARP Foundation Tax Aid volunteers helped nearly 12,000 taxpayers at more than 27 sites across Montana file their taxes. People do not have to be retired or a member of AARP to use the service.

For an appointment, people can call the Havre Senior Citizens Center at 265-5464. The service is offered Mondays and Tuesdays starting Feb. 5 through the tax season. People must bring their Social Security card, last year’s tax return and all forms needed to prepare their taxes. Taxpayers 62 and older should bring their real estate taxes or a signed letter with the amount of rent from their landlord.