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AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides tax assistance to those who qualify, free of charge, with a special focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. Tax-Aide volunteers are located nationwide, and are trained and IRS-certified every year to make sure they know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code.

Enhanced Senior Deduction

There is a new enhanced senior deduction designed to help taxpayers age 65 and older. This additional deduction is up to $6,000 for individuals and $12,000 for married couples. Our tax counselors can help you determine if you are eligible for this new tax break. Learn more about the enhanced senior deduction.

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Have an IRS-certified volunteer prepare your taxes.

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Prepare My Own Taxes Online

Use free software to prepare your own taxes with the assistance of an IRS-certified volunteer coach.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is AARP Foundation Tax-Aide available this year?

Yes, generally Tax-Aide service will run from February 1 to April 15.

Can Tax-Aide help file my taxes?

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers can help with most, but not all, tax returns. If you have an extremely complicated return, such as one that involves a small business with employees, rental income, or alternative minimum tax (AMT), Tax-Aide may not be able to help. See what type of taxes we can prepare.

Are Tax-Aide volunteers IRS-certified?

Yes, our volunteers are IRS-certified and every return is quality reviewed by another volunteer.

Who is eligible for the new enhanced senior deduction?

Taxpayers and/or their spouses must be age 65 or older and have a valid Social Security Number (SSN).

  • Is there an income limit?

    Yes. The deduction begins to phase out at $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for Married Filing Jointly (MFJ). Higher-income taxpayers may receive a reduced benefit or may not qualify.

  • Are there filing status restrictions?

    Yes. Taxpayers filing as Married Filing Separate are not eligible.

  • Do I need to receive Social Security benefits to qualify?

    No. Eligibility does not depend on receiving or being eligible for Social Security benefits.

  • Can I claim this deduction if I take the standard deduction or if I itemize?

    Yes. The deduction is available whether you itemize deductions or take the standard deduction.

  • How much is the deduction?

    The deduction reduces taxable income by up to $6,000 for individuals or $12,000 for MFJ.

  • Is this a direct payment?

    No. This is a deduction that may reduce your taxes, not a direct payment.

  • Will all seniors benefit from this deduction?

    Not necessarily. Many taxpayers will not see a benefit if they do not have a tax liability (i.e., if they do not owe any taxes on their income).

What are my options for service?

Access to the different types of assistance below varies on the site.

  • In-Person Service: Tax return prepared and filed by a certified volunteer in one visit.
  • Drop Off Service: Leave documents at the site; return is prepared remotely. Pick up and file during a second visit.
  • No Site Visit Required (Internet Access Required): Upload documents online; volunteers work with you remotely to prepare and file your return electronically.
  • Online Coaching: Prepare your own return with remote support from a volunteer.
  • Facilitated Self-Assistance: Schedule a site appointment to complete and file your own return with volunteer coaching help.
  • Self-Preparation: Use Tax-Aide's software to prepare your own return independently.