There are lots of words people use to describe preparing their taxes, but “fun” isn’t the first one that leaps to mind. Unless you are Paula Rak, a member of the team that is providing free help preparing federal income tax returns now through April 11.

“It just seems like fun, and people are always happy to get it done,” she said.

Rak is in her 18th year of providing free one-hour sessions to help people untangle their tax questions and get their returns submitted on time.

She came to Wrangell in 1980, working with the U.S. Forest Service. “I like logic puzzles, I like organizing things, I like using that part of my brain,” she explained.

When she was interested in becoming a volunteer for the tax assistance service, offered in partnership with AARP and the IRS, there were requirements she had to meet in order to become a tested, certified tax return preparer.

“It takes a time commitment of at least 40 hours,” she said. Once certified, preparers also attend a week-long annual training in Anchorage or online.

“Tax law changes all the time, and with changes there’s often confusion or misinformation. The free online software applications are generally good, but not always reliable and not always free,” Rak said. “They may do the calculations for you, but find ways to charge you, like if you want a printout.”

She said there are some elements that are particular to Alaska that a general program doesn’t automatically incorporate into their forms, like the annual Permanent Fund dividend.

The AARP Tax-Aide program operates nationwide, including in several Alaska cities. Volunteers helped almost 5,000 Alaskans with their tax returns in 2024, according to the Senior Voice newspaper.

Though AARP used to stand for American Association of Retired Persons, there is no age requirement for the free help with tax returns.

Rak said the team assists about 150 people a year in Wrangell.

She is generally surprised by younger people who neglect to file their returns, sometimes for years, even when they qualify for a refund. “It’s good to get them caught up.”

In addition to bringing paper copies of any documents, such as W-2 income statements, and (sorted) receipts for any deductions, Rak recommends having your banking information ready. “The IRS is not cutting checks — they are doing direct deposit for refunds.” It will still take your check for payment or a direct debit through your bank.

Volunteering every Saturday, in addition to the training and preparation, reflects Rak’s dedication to the community. “It’s nice to help people. We’re just such a small community, we have to help each other.”

The tax aide team, including Rak, Nancy McQueen and Julie Williams, can assist with personal tax returns, amended tax returns and small business returns (with some exceptions). They are available by appointment every Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. at Harbor Light Assembly of God Church. Call 907-305-0309 to schedule an appointment.