Beginning Feb. 1 and running through April 18, AARP Foundation is once again providing free tax assistance and preparation for Idahoans across the state. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in its 49th year, is the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service. You do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service.

Last year, 300 volunteers helped more than 40,000 Idahoans file their federal and state tax returns. Refunds totaled more than $20 million. The program is offered at 43 sites across the Gem State including senior centers, libraries, churches and other convenient locations.

In 2016, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers helped 2.7 million people nationwide navigate complicated tax codes, ensure proper credits and deductions and file their federal and state tax returns. Taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.41 billion in income tax refunds and more than $240 million in Earned Income Tax Credits.

Since 1968, Tax-Aide has helped nearly 50 million low- to moderate-income taxpayers.

In Bonner County, programs are held at the West Bonner District Library, 209 Main St., in Priest River; and at the Sandpoint Senior Center, 820 Main St., Sandpoint.

For more information on documents to bring to the tax site or to locate an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site, visit www.aarp.org/findtaxhelp or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669). AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS.

AARP Foundation works to ensure that low-income older adults have nutritious food, affordable housing, a steady income, and strong and sustaining bonds. The foundation collaborates with individuals and organizations who share its commitment to innovation and its passion for problem-solving. AARP Foundation is the affiliated charity of AARP.