| Financial
If you live in Hopkins County, want to have your taxes prepared free of charge, and have a simple return to file, the AARP Tax-Aide program will soon be offering that service in Sulphur Springs.
Each tax season, AARP gathers a team of volunteers into a step-by step process to become trained and certified Tax-Aide tax counselors. But first, volunteers are needed to begin the free instruction offered through AARP.
Training Specialist Cheryl Spears and Instructor Mary Lou Foster are looking for people interested in becoming Tax-Aide counselors. Spears has 33 years experience in the AARP program, and Foster is in her tenth year as an Tax-Aide instructor.
On Jan. 3 and Jan. 4, the first meetings will be held with new volunteers to acquaint them with tax materials and computers. They will become acquainted with one another as well as the Tax-Aide program. Then, starting in the fourth week of January 2024, training will begin in earnest for all new and returning volunteers.
The full week of intense instruction from Jan. 22 through Jan. 26 is vital. However, those who cannot attend the entire week will have the option of on-line training and the use of resource materials. Following training, volunteers must test to become IRS-certified, and to make sure they feel comfortable with the materials, and know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code. In early February, the Tax-Aide program will open to the public and counselors will begin their work. Returns will be prepared on Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Sulphur Springs Public Library, from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Preparers always work under the watchful eye of a trainer, so help is always close at hand. As a Tax-Aide volunteer, you’ll receive free training, flexible hours, ongoing support, and the fulfillment that comes from helping your neighbors.
Tax counselors who can work with senior citizens are especially needed, as are bi-lingual counselors. Persons who know sign language for the deaf are also sought as counselors. Counselors do not have to possess strong financial or math skills, but what they do need is interest, dedication, and a willingness to learn.
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming an AARP Tax-Aide trained counselor, contact Mary Lou Foster at 903-458-4151, or go to aarp.org/tax-aide to sign up as a volunteer.