AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Press release from the White Plains Public Library:

February 23, 2021 11:52 am | by Kristen, Adult Librarian

The White Plains AARP Tax-Aide program will not be able to offer the kind of in-person service taxpayers have become used to for so many years. The primary concerns remain the health and safety of taxpayers and preparers, and the protection of confidential taxpayer information.

White Plains will operate a no-contact, electronic service, which involves the transmittal of instructions, forms, permissions, and scans of tax documents using email. After the initial contact, taxpayers will receive an email with instructions and documents to print, fill out and return for tax preparation. Documents will need to be scanned and attached to the return email. Taxpayers can use their own computer (or smart phone) to scan and email the documents. Some clients may choose to use a commercial provider for scanning and printing (such as Staples or UPS) if they are unable to do this themselves, or perhaps ask a friend or relatives for assistance.

The actual process will involve multiple exchange of emails and documents over a few days, followed by a video meeting using Google Meets (similar to Zoom). Taxpayers will need access to a computer (with a camera, microphone and speaker), a printer and scanner. A smartphone can be used as a viable replacement as long as taxpayer has access to a printer. We anticipate the exchange between our staff and the taxpayer will require several days to prepare and finalize the return.

We have forms and instructions in English and Spanish. However, we have a limited number of Spanish speaking volunteers, so all email exchanges and phone discussions may have to be done in English. If you prefer Spanish forms and instructions, be sure to alert us.

If you are comfortable with this process, you can contact us at:
Email: S15050901@aarpfoundation.org or call (914) 341-2116

Your initial contact MUST include your email address, phone number, best time for us to call, and any preference for Spanish forms. Please do not send any tax documents until you receive our forms and instruction package.

Please note any return phone calls will be from a Google Voice phone number, not from a phone number you recognize. Calls from Google Meets will always be identified with the number (617) 675-4444. Messages left may not be returned.

This press release was produced by the White Plains Public Library. The views expressed are the author's own.