AARP tax prep is free for all low to moderate income taxpayers

Starting from January to April 15 of each year, tax preparation services are advertising everywhere, from print press to television, online and even people costumed as tax forms waving signs on the street.

For low to moderate income taxpayers, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in its 46th year, is the nation's largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention to the older population.

You do not need to be a member of AARP and there are no age restrictions to use this service. 

This program is offered in conjunction with the IRS. In 2012, taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.3 billion in income tax refunds and more than $233 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs). In north Seattle and Shoreline, there are 5 convenient sites - see below. Complete list here. AARP volunteers prepare the electronic tax returns and e-file for taxpayers – all FREE. 

Starting February 20, sites at Northgate Library, Shoreline Library, and Broadview Library will also have preparers trained to provide tax filing assistance to foreign students with their 1040NR-EZ and Form 8843.

Local and nearby locations

Shoreline Library

345 NE 175th, Shoreline 98155, 206-362-7550

Thursdays 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM. First day is Feb. 2nd.

Saturdays 12 PM – 4 PM. Walk-ins only, no appointments

do not call the library

Richmond Beach Library

19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline 98177, 206-365-1536

Fridays 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Appointments only. Call 206 365-1536 for appointment.

Lake City Library

12501 28th Ave NE, Seattle 98125, 206-684-7518

Mondays 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM (closed Feb. 18th ). 

Walk-ins only, no appointments.

Northgate Library

10548 5th Ave NE, Seattle 98125, 206-386-1980

Mondays 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM (closed Feb. 18th). 

Wednesdays 12 PM – 5PM.  Walk-ins only, no appointments.

Broadview Library

12755 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle 98133, 206-684-7520

Fridays 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. 

Saturdays 10 AM – 3 PM. Walk-ins only, no appointments.

Note for all sites: 

All tax returns that can be e-filed will be e-filed.

No paper returns unless required by the IRS.