Volunteer
You can email us to connect with a local volunteer, sign up to become a volunteer, or continue reading to learn more about the program and opportunities to help.
Who We Are
The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program provides free income tax preparation and e-filing services to taxpayers of all ages and income levels, with a special focus on those in our community who need help the most.
Our district serves residents throughout Thurston County at multiple locations, including libraries, community centers, and senior centers.
Why Volunteer with AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
Volunteering with Tax-Aide is a meaningful way to support seniors and low-income households who truly benefit from this service. What may take only a little of your time can make a significant difference in someone’s life.
Volunteering is also personally rewarding. It keeps your mind active, connects you with your community, and brings the satisfaction of helping others. The gratitude you receive from taxpayers makes the experience especially fulfilling.
Each year, the demand for our services exceeds what our current team can provide. That’s why we’re always looking to expand our group of 50–70 dedicated volunteers.
Who Can Volunteer?
You do not need to be a tax expert, an AARP member, or a senior citizen to volunteer.
All you need is:
- A willingness to learn new skills
- A desire to help others in your community
We provide the training and support you need to succeed.
What Volunteers Do
There are several ways to contribute, depending on your interests and skills:
Greeters (Client Facilitators)
Welcome taxpayers, help organize their documents, and assist with managing the flow of clients at the site.
Tax Counselors
Work directly with taxpayers to prepare their tax returns using IRS-provided tax software. No previous experience is required—training and certification are provided to help you prepare returns within the program’s scope.
Schedulers
Work remotely to schedule appointments for taxpayers.
Interpreters or Translators
Assist taxpayers whose primary language is not English or who are hearing impaired.
We also welcome volunteers who can assist with communications, technology, and website support.
What’s the Time Commitment?
- Training: Schedulers, Greeters, and Interpreters: about 5 hours of training in January
Tax Counselors: approximately 50 hours of training and certification in December and January, including classroom sessions, independent study, and testing - During Tax Season (Early February – Mid April): Volunteers are asked to contribute one 5-hour shift per week, or at least 40 hours during the tax season. You can choose the site and shift that works best for you, and we are happy to accommodate vacations or other commitments.
Interested but Have Questions?
Email us at volunteer@taxaidewa20.org, and one of our Thurston County volunteers will be happy to contact you and provide more information.
Ready to Volunteer?
Click here to create an account and sign up as an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteer. You do not need to be an AARP member to volunteer, but you will need to create a free account to register.
After you sign up, a Thurston County volunteer will contact you with details about Volunteer Orientation, which takes place each November.
Still Not Sure?
Check out this Washington State volunteer video to learn more about the experience and impact of volunteering with AARP Foundation Tax-Aide.