Older adults can get help filing their taxes at local Seattle-area sites during tax season. Whether you want to know if you need to file taxes as a senior, how you can earn more on your tax return through credits and deductions for seniors, or how you can file your taxes easily, you can get help at one of these local tax prep help events.

There are a few common tax errors that seniors make, so it’s helpful to talk with a tax professional each year to avoid them. You may even be able to learn tips about certain expenses to track, allowing you to earn more through tax deductions next year.

Use the resources below to access tax prep help for seniors. Be sure to note the dates of each event and find out whether you need to make an appointment. Each resource should also indicate the information that the senior needs to bring to the event, and you can call the location with additional questions.

• AARP’s Tax-Aide Program: AARP’s Tax-Aide Foundation offers free tax prep help to people over 50 through in-person and virtual methods. IRS-certified and trained Tax-Aide volunteers help people with many tax situations file their returns. Enter your zip code into the AARP Tax-Aide site locator to find the locations near you. You can also filter by the services available to find in-person, drop-off, or virtual tax prep assistance based on your preference. Remember to bring all the necessary documentation to your AARP Tax-Aide appointment.
• The IRS’s VITA and TCE programs: The IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free assistance with tax preparation to lower-income individuals, people with disabilities, and people who speak limited English. The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) provides specialized assistance to tax filers aged 60 and older who may have questions about pensions and other retirement income. IRS-certified volunteers perform these services. Appointments are required at some locations and not others. Prepare for your visit by knowing what services are offered and what to bring. Enter your zip code to find the locations near you.
• CASH Oregon: CASH Oregon, a Metropolitan Family Service program, gives individuals free tax preparation assistance. IRS-certified volunteers offer both in-person and virtual visits to help individuals earning under $64,00 a year prepare their tax returns. Be sure to bring all necessary documentation to your appointment at any of these locations throughout the area.
• The Community for Positive Aging: With CASH Oregon, the Community for Positive Aging has appointments for assistance with tax preparation at the Hollywood Senior Center. Call 503-288-8303 to book an appointment with a trained volunteer.
• Friendly House: Friendly House has appointments for tax assistance through CASH Oregon and AARP. You can book an appointment online or by calling 503-224-2640.
• Impact NW: Impact NW is an organization supporting seniors and adults with disabilities. They offer tax counseling and preparation help. Contact them at 503-721-6760 to ask about their tax services.
• Matt Dishman Community Center: The Matt Dishman Community Center hosts a CASH Oregon tax assistance day on Sundays from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Appointments are required. Make your appointment via CASH Oregon’s website.
• Multnomah County Library, Woodstock Library: The Woodstock Library has File Taxes for Free events on Saturdays from 11:15 to 4:15 until the tax filing deadline (for tax year 2023; check back for other future dates or call the library). Visit the link to review the income qualifications and other criteria to ensure you meet the requirements to receive help at these events.