AARP still accepting local Tax-Aide appointments

KELLOGG — For the last six years, AARP Tax-Aide has been helping those in Shoshone County with low-to-moderate income prepare their taxes free of charge.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, local coordinator Jim Thomas and the Tax-Aide service weren't able to get things going as quick as they normally would. After finally kicking off on March 1 though, Thomas would like to remind the community that they will be accepting appointments for another two weeks.

"Even though the IRS has extended the tax season to May 17, the last day of operation for the AARP Tax-Aide in Kellogg will be April 14," Thomas said. "Due to our reduced operations this year, we are trying to limit our free services to local residents."

Also in response to the pandemic, all Tax-Aide services are by appointment only and will not be in-person. The taxpayer will fill out forms and talk to a tax counselor, drop off their tax documents, have the tax return prepared outside their presence, and then agree to be available by phone during tax return preparation. Upon completion, the taxpayer will review the return with a certified counselor and sign documents.

In Kellogg, Tax-Aide is located at the Panhandle Health District building at 35 Wildcat Way and is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Upon arrival at an appointment, mask usage will be required and only two taxpayers will be allowed in the building at one time.

Those utilizing the free service need to bring identification, proof of Social Security, and all relevant tax documents.

Thomas states that while AARP is dedicated to people ages 50 and older, this annual program is available free to anyone with low-to-moderate income and does not require AARP membership.

The Kellogg Tax-Aide site has been responsible for filing approximately 100 tax returns each year.

For more information and/or to make an appointment, call 208-786-9010.