Something remarkable has been happening on the lower level of the Plymouth Center for Active Living (CAL) over the last few months. A small army of highly qualified volunteers have, without fanfare, been churning out free federal and state tax returns for local taxpayers four days a week. It’s part of a nationwide program called Tax-Aide, run by the AARP Foundation.
According to the AARP Foundation, Tax-Aide is the largest, free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation program in the nation. IRS-certified volunteers provide tax expertise and guidance, often helping taxpayers find money they didn’t know they were owed. For the 2024 tax season, the program helped more than 977,000 adults nationwide secure
$593 million in tax refunds and credits. While Tax-Aide in Plymouth is housed at the CAL, taxpayers of all ages can take advantage of the free services.
In order to become a tax preparer for Tax-Aide, one must complete a rigorous course in tax preparation and learn the tax software the program relies on. Training in the fall culminates with several tests, the most challenging of which is the IRS advanced tax counselor exam. Those passing this test earn IRS certification, which is required to prepare Tax-Aide returns. Gaining competency with the Massachusetts tax code is also required. These volunteers know the tax system.
About a third of taxpayers who come to the CAL find that they are eligible for something known as the Massachusetts Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit. This is a really good deal for many older taxpayers. Put simply, if your property taxes or rent are high relative to your income, Massachusetts offers a tax credit of up to $2,730 (2024 level). And you get the money even if you didn’t owe any Massachusetts income taxes. How many senior citizens overlook this tax credit?
How much do local taxpayers save by not having to pay someone to produce their tax returns? Plenty. According to Internet sources, a typical return without itemization of deductions costs more than $200 these days. The Plymouth Tax-Aide program produced 739 returns during the 2024 tax season, many of which included itemization. A conservative estimate of taxpayer savings for the Plymouth Tax-Aide site alone for this tax season is nearly $150,000. And most taxpayers walk out with refunds.
Hats off to everyone who pitches in to make this valuable, local program possible. The Tax-Aide program is a gift to our community. The dedicated volunteers are unsung heroes.
– Eric Cody