Central Oregon residents can once again access free tax preparation services designed to assist low-income and older adult taxpayers during the upcoming tax season. Offered through the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide, this all-volunteer program provides professional, no-cost tax assistance at several locations throughout the region, including the Council on Aging of Central Oregon’s Senior Services Center.
In 2024, the program served over 2,000 individuals in the tri-county area, generating nearly $2 million in tax refunds for local taxpayers. “We’re thrilled to continue providing this essential service to our community,” said Rebecca Von Stein, AARP TaxAide District 17 Coordinator. “Tax season can be stressful, especially for older adults and those on limited incomes. Our dedicated volunteers are here to make the process easier, ensuring that residents have access to accurate and free tax preparation.”
The Council on Aging is delighted to host the Tax-Aide volunteers for a second year, underscoring a shared commitment to helping older adults address the unique challenges they may face during tax season. Appointments will take place at the Senior Services Center, located at 1036 NE 5th Street in Bend, starting February 3rd and are offered by appointment only. There are a limited number of appointments available at this location. To schedule a Tax-Aide appointment at the Council on Aging, please call 541-668-7597.
In addition to the Senior Services Center in Bend, AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will provide free tax preparation services to low income and older adult residents at several other convenient locations throughout Central Oregon, including Redmond, La Pine, and Warm Springs. Each location offers services tailored to meet the needs of the community, with options for walk-ins or appointments depending on the site. Residents are encouraged to check the full list below of locations and availability to find the one that works best for them.
Cassie Regimbal, Executive Director of the Council on Aging of Central Oregon, shared, “It’s an honor to collaborate with AARP Tax-Aide again this year. The work they do helps ease the burden of tax season for older adults and others in need, making a meaningful impact in our community.”
For those interested in giving back to the community, AARP Tax-Aide is always seeking dedicated volunteers to join its team. Volunteers receive comprehensive training and the opportunity to help neighbors navigate the often-complex tax filing process. Whether you have a knack for numbers or simply enjoy connecting with people, this is a meaningful way to make a difference. To learn more about volunteering with AARP Tax-Aide, please contact Rebecca Von Stein at rebvonstein@gmail.com.
AARP Foundation Tax Aide Locations in Central Oregon
Bend Main Library
Address: 601 NW Wall Street
Contact: 541-728-3053
Walk-in appointments available Saturdays starting at 9:00 AM
Monday appointments by reservation only
Bend Council on Aging
Address: 1036 NE 5th Street
Contact: 541-668-7597
By appointment only
Bend Latino Community Association
Address: 2680 NE Twin Knolls Drive, Suite #110
Contact: 541-788-4831
Bilingual tax preparers available
By appointment only
Redmond NeighborImpact Building
Address: 2303 SW 1st Street
Contact: 541-526-3834
By appointment only
Warm Springs Community Action Team
Address: 1136 Paiute Avenue, Warm Springs
Contact: 541-553-3148
By appointment only
Tribal Members only
La Pine Senior Activity Center
Address: 16450 Victory Way
Contact: 541-536-6237
By appointment only
Assisted Tax Preparation
Self-preparation with remote assistance from an AARP Tax-Aide Counselor
aarpfoundation.org/taxaideselfprep
458-206-1821
For more information, please visit the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide website or contact your preferred location directly.
About the Council on Aging of Central Oregon
Since 1975, the Council on Aging of Central Oregon (CoA) has served as the designated Area Agency on Aging for Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson counties, offering adults aged 60 and older and their loved ones a range of support services. CoA advocates for, empowers, and guides older adults and their loved ones to live with independence and well-being. To find out more about the Council on Aging of Central Oregon, visit www.councilonaging.org or call (541) 678-5483.
