Qualified individuals and families in the Tri-Community can take advantage of free tax preparation services offered through two programs this tax season.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in partnership with the IRS, is providing free tax assistance for seniors and low- to medium-income individuals. The service includes tax preparation and electronic filing at the Phelan Senior Center, located at 4128 Warbler Road in Phelan. Assistance will be available on a first-come, first-served basis on March 10 and March 24 from 8 to 11:30 a.m. The final session will be held on Monday, April 7, during the same hours.
Individuals seeking tax preparation assistance must bring a copy of last year’s tax return, Social Security cards for everyone listed on the return, and all tax documents for 2024, including W-2s, 1099s, 1095s, and NECs. Only printed documents will be accepted. A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, is also required. For joint returns, both spouses must be present to sign. Additional information is available by calling 760-474-0168.
A second free tax preparation program is available through the San Bernardino County Transitional Assistance Department. Staffed by IRS-certified volunteers through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, this service is open to individuals and families with a combined household income of less than $67,000 in 2024.
VITA services will be available in Phelan and Wrightwood, but appointments are required. Residents can schedule an appointment by calling 877-410-8829. The Phelan Memorial Library will host tax preparation services on March 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., while the Wrightwood Library will offer the service on March 31 during the same hours.
Residents using the VITA program should review the list of required documents before their appointment. A complete list is available at wp.sbcounty.gov/tad/resource. As with AARP Tax-Aide, both spouses must be present for joint returns. The VITA program does not prepare tax returns for rental properties, married filing separately, out-of-state income, military members, or self-employed individuals with business expenses.
Both programs provide safe, accurate, and free tax preparation to help residents file their returns on time.
