Free training for individuals interested in becoming volunteer tax counselors in the American Association of Retired Persons Tax-Aide program will be conducted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 9, 23 and 30 in Salt Lake City.
The training to work with basic federal and state forms will be given in the Internal Revenue Service district office, 50 S. 200 East, said Stan Daniels of the AARP Tax-Aide program.Training in advanced topics and refresher instruction for experienced counselors will be conducted from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 26, at Utah State Tax Commission headquarters, 210 N. 1950 West.
Instruction on electronic filing will be given in the IRS office on Jan. 9. A morning session for beginners is scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon, followed by a session for experienced electronic filers from 1 to 4 p.m.
Basic counselor training will be given Jan. 25 and 26 in St. George and in Provo on Jan. 5 and 6. Dates for sessions in Delta, Ephraim, Ogden and Vernal will be announced later, Daniels said.
AARP counselors give free assistance to older and low-to-moderate income taxpayers. They agree to four hours service per week during the tax preparation season. Counselors are reimbursed for mileage and are covered by accident and liability insurance while counseling.
Individuals who like helping people and are good with numbers will enjoy this work, as evidenced by the number of counselors who return year after year. Prior tax preparation experience is not required. More than 9,100 Utahns received free assistance during the 1998 tax season, Daniels said. To volunteer or to obtain more information, call toll-free 1-888-227-7669.