AARP Effort Prepares 400 Free Tax Returns Despite Fewer Volunteers

Four hundred Lake Wales area residents will have received free tax-filing assistance this season thanks to a group of dedicated volunteers associated with the American Association of Retired Persons. The group, working from space donated by the Church of the Good Shepherd, is part of the annual effort by the AARP Foundation.

Tax-Aide volunteers have been providing in-person tax assistance at the church on South Fourth Street in Lake Wales for over 20 years. Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year. The service provided to the community saves taxpayers hundreds of dollars.

Prior to COVID, over 800 Federal returns were e-filed each year. Due to a reduction in volunteers, approximately 400 returns will be filed this year. That was enough applications to fill every available slot for assistance, highlighting the need for additional volunteers.

New volunteers are needed and encouraged to call the appointment line to learn about training opportunities in the fall.

Even though there are no appointments available for this tax season, the appointment line is open for questions. The number to call for help or to volunteer is 863-455-9834.