The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program is marking the conclusion of the 2025 tax season, during which volunteers provided free preparation and filing services to help taxpayers secure vital refunds. The program specifically focuses on taxpayers aged 50 and older with low-to-moderate incomes.

Locally, eight volunteers helped 281 taxpayers file their returns. That figure is up from 268 last year, according to Linn Hogg, director of Volunteers in Action of Central Kansas and local program coordinator. Statewide, Tax-Aide assisted 12,197 taxpayers, while 1,215,486 were helped nationwide.

“By helping these taxpayers build financial resilience, Tax-Aide volunteers provide a vital lifeline to their communities,” Hogg said. “Because every dollar counts for those on low incomes, our team works to ensure no senior misses out on the essential tax credits and deductions they are owed.”

Hogg noted that the impact goes beyond finances.

“When our volunteers see that look of relief and the smiles on the faces of the clients, they know they have made a human impact as well,” she said. “That is priceless.”

Program leaders are already looking toward next year. Hogg described Tax-Aide as a vital program where the work truly matters, but noted the site could serve even more taxpayers with additional volunteer support.

“We are seeking caring people who want to make a difference in their communities,” she said.

In addition to tax preparation, volunteers provide technical support, organization, recruitment and translation services. Anyone interested in helping can contact Hogg.

Training classes are generally held in December or January. The required training time depends on the specific volunteer position. During the filing season, which runs from February through April, volunteers assist taxpayers while the local site is in operation. Time commitments range from a few hours to 40 hours per week.

“All levels and types of experience are welcome,” an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide statement read. Volunteers come from a variety of industries – ranging from college students to retirees – and do not need to be AARP members.

Established in 1968, Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program.

For more information, contact Hogg at 620-792-1614, address and/or email her at linnhogg59@gmail.com.

About AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program

Kansas residents can get their taxes done for free beginning in early February and continuing through mid-April. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free tax preparation assistance service, has low-contact, contact-free, and in-person options for providing taxpayer assistance. These options vary by location and are subject to change.

AARP membership is not required. Visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide for details.