Get Your Taxes Done for Free

Contact Us and we will help you set an in-person appointment with an AARP Tax-Aide Volunteer right here at Senior Connections: 815-544-9893

You must pick up an INTAKE FORM at SENIOR CONNECTIONS and fill it out BEFORE arriving for your appointment.  We advise that you give yourself ample time to complete it.  These are available in the red  newstand “box” in our lobby at 2141 Henry Luckow Ln, Belvidere, IL, 61008. Please stop by during business hours: M-F 8 AM – 4:30 PM.

Important Information for AARP Tax Aide Participants

Welcome to the AARP Tax Aide Program

Thank you for choosing the AARP Tax Aide program for your tax preparation needs. Please carefully review the following important information to ensure your appointment runs smoothly and your tax return can be accurately prepared.

Scope of Service

Our volunteers are not Certified Public Accountants (CPAs); they are trained to prepare tax returns strictly within the scope defined by the AARP Foundation and the IRS. Each year, the scope of returns we can prepare may change. If your return includes items outside our scope, we will not be able to prepare your taxes.

Site Operations and Appointment Policies

• The tax site is open as scheduled; however, it may close unexpectedly due to circumstances beyond our control. Your safety is our top priority.
• If you or your spouse/partner cannot make your appointment, are feeling ill, or anticipate being late, please call 815-544-9893 to reschedule.
• If you are married, both spouses must be present to complete the tax return.
• The IRS will not issue refund checks. Be prepared to have direct deposit.
• All documents must be printed; we will not accept documents displayed on a smartphone.

Required Documentation

• Bring a valid photo ID and Social Security cards for everyone included on your tax return.
• If you are acting on behalf of an incapacitated spouse or adult dependent, a Power of Attorney (POA) is required.
• Bring your 2024 tax return (last year’s) and any supporting documents.
• Complete and bring the intake booklet (questionnaire) provided to you.
• If you had an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) last year, you must have a new one for this year.
• Collect all tax documents, including but not limited to:
• W-2 forms
• 1099 forms (such as 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-SA, 1099-R, etc.)
• Final broker statements
• 1095-A (health insurance marketplace statement)
• Total interest earned on accounts, even if no form was issued
• Last pay stub if you receive tips or overtime pay

During Your Appointment

• You must remain on site while your return is being prepared. Please plan for your appointment to last up to 90 minutes, or longer if your tax situation is complex.
• If you expect a refund and want direct deposit, or if you owe tax and want to use direct debit, bring your checkbook or a check from your account (not a deposit slip) with your account and routing numbers.
• You will be required to verify and initialize the information on your tax return during the review process.
• Be prepared to answer questions during your appointment, even if you have already answered them on the intake form.

Rescheduling and Responsibilities

You are responsible for the accuracy of the information on your tax return.

If you do not have all required information or documents prior to your appointment, please call to reschedule.

Information is also available on the AARP website.