500 Oregon Volunteers Help 19,000 File Taxes for Free

Tax season doesn't have to mean stress or expensive preparation fees, especially for Oregonians who need help most.

The AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide program connects people with IRS-certified volunteers who prepare and file tax returns at no cost through April 15. Anyone can use the service, though it focuses on low- and middle-income older adults.

Kathy Goeddel has been volunteering as a tax preparer for 42 years. Now the assistant state coordinator for Oregon, she knows firsthand how overwhelming tax codes can be when they change every year.

"We go through training and we do many, many, many returns, so we're pretty fast," Goeddel said. "We also double-check everything. So, you get a very high-quality return done and it's all for free."

The numbers tell a powerful story. Last year, Oregon's roughly 500 Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 19,000 people file their returns, securing $16 million in refunds. Nationwide, 28,000 volunteers helped return $1.3 billion to taxpayers.

Every single volunteer earns IRS certification annually to stay current with tax code changes. This year, that includes a new senior bonus deduction of up to $6,000 for individuals 65 and older, or $12,000 for joint filers.

The training requires serious study hours. Goeddel admits the prework can feel overwhelming.

"During the prework, you're like, 'Oh my God, I can't believe I'm doing this,'" she said. "But you get back at it and you forget all about how much work it was and just enjoy who you're with and working with your team."

The Ripple Effect

Tax-Aide represents the country's largest free, volunteer-based tax filing program. That $16 million returned to Oregonians last year didn't just help individuals pay bills or save for emergencies. It flowed back into local communities through groceries bought, medical bills paid, and small businesses supported.

The program also offers flexibility that commercial services often can't match. Taxpayers can choose in-person preparation, drop-off service, or online assistance. Appointments are available to fit different schedules.

For volunteers like Goeddel who return year after year, the reward isn't financial. It's knowing their expertise helps neighbors keep more of their hard-earned money while navigating an increasingly complex system.

Oregon's 500 volunteers are ready to help thousands more this season find every deduction and credit they deserve.