Free Tax Help Coming to Red Oak Through AARP Foundation Tax-Aide; Volunteers Needed

Free Tax Help Coming to Red Oak Through AARP Foundation Tax-Aide; Volunteers Needed

 

 

A new free tax preparation service is coming to Red Oak this season, and local organizers are looking for volunteers to make it happen.

Larry Brandstetter recently shared details about the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program during a visit to KCSI. The nationwide program uses trained volunteers to help people prepare and file simple federal and Iowa tax returns at no cost. It is designed for individuals who cannot afford a paid preparer, do not have a computer, or do not feel comfortable completing the forms on their own.

 

Volunteers Needed: No Tax Experience Required

Organizers are looking for at least four volunteers to form two teams, with more welcome so schedules can be rotated. Ideal volunteers are retired or semi-retired and comfortable using a computer. Prior tax experience is not required.

There are two roles:

• Client Facilitator — Welcomes people, handles check-in, and makes sure taxpayers have the necessary documents and forms.

• Tax Counselor — Works with taxpayers to identify the right forms and documents, enters information using IRS-certified software, explains the completed return, and manages records.

Both roles require training. Sessions begin in November and are available in Omaha or Des Moines (Omaha is closer for most local volunteers). Training covers tax forms, preparation, and ethics. Volunteers must pass tests. The process is not considered difficult, especially for people who are comfortable with computers or enjoy working through puzzles. Training can be done in person

(preferred) or by Zoom. Volunteers may use their own computers during training, but not for actual tax preparation.

Time commitment is modest. Organizers estimate roughly eight hours per week during the season, depending on the number of appointments. Volunteers will not sit waiting for walk-ins; they will come in when appointments are scheduled. Exact days and hours will be set by the volunteers themselves.

 

How to Get Involved

Anyone interested in volunteering can call Larry Branstetter at 712-621-2010. He will answer questions and connect people with the AARP state coordinator, who handles the next steps for training and certification. Training and equipment are provided at no cost to volunteers.

“This is a way to help people who want to save some money, especially when dollars are short,” Branstetter said. “We’re not trying to take work away from tax professionals. We’re just trying to help people who need it.”

The program has been operating nationally for many years and has proven popular in other Iowa communities. Local organizers expect interest to grow once word spreads.

For more information about volunteering, call Larry Branstetter at 712-621-2010.