Washington, D.C. — The newly updated AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site at taxaide.aarpfoundation.org is now live for tax year 2026, offering comprehensive information on one of America’s largest volunteer-run tax assistance programs. The online hub provides guidance on free tax preparation, answers to frequently asked questions, and details on expanded tax breaks for older taxpayers.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has long been recognized as a key resource for taxpayers nationwide, especially those aged 50 and older with low to moderate income. The program, which is supported by trained and IRS-certified volunteers, provides free federal and state income tax preparation services at thousands of sites across the United States each tax season.
What’s New on the 2026 Site
The 2026 Tax-Aide service page highlights several important updates for this filing season:
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Expanded Senior Tax Deduction: A newly promoted “enhanced senior deduction” offers additional tax relief — up to $6,000 in deductions for individuals 65 and older, and up to $12,000 for married couples filing jointly — aimed at helping older taxpayers reduce taxable income. Tax-Aide volunteers can help determine eligibility for this deduction.
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Multiple Ways to Get Help: The site details a range of service options, including in-person preparation, drop-off assistance, remote electronic filing, online coaching, and self-preparation using free software supported by volunteer coaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Answers to common tax season questions — such as availability dates, volunteer certification standards, and service limitations — are provided directly on the page for quick reference.
Free Help With Filing — But Know the Limits
While Tax-Aide volunteers can help prepare most federal and state income tax returns, some complicated returns — such as those involving significant business income, complex rental income scenarios, or alternative minimum tax issues — may fall outside the program’s scope.
Tax-Aide’s services are open to any qualifying taxpayer, and AARP membership is not required to receive assistance. Historically, the program has assisted millions of taxpayers — emphasizing access and accuracy through IRS-certified volunteer preparation and quality review.
Nationwide Service With Local Reach
The Tax-Aide program operates through a network of nearly 3,500 sites across the country, located in community centers, libraries, senior centers and other accessible locations. Taxpayers can use the online locator tool to find the nearest site and schedule appointments when available.
Volunteers prepare returns, identify applicable credits and deductions, and strive to ensure eligible filers receive maximum refunds and tax savings. The program — now in operation every year since 1968 — has helped tens of millions of Americans navigate complex tax rules and reduce filing stress.
Why It Matters This Tax Season
With changes in tax law and ongoing economic pressures on older and low-income households, free tax help through programs like AARP Foundation Tax-Aide continues to be a vital service. By providing expert, no-cost assistance, the program helps taxpayers meet filing requirements, claim benefits they’re entitled to, and avoid costly errors.
For more information or to access the full range of resources available this year, taxpayers can visit the official Tax-Aide service page at taxaide.aarpfoundation.org.