Most people don’t think about taxes until January, but the volunteers who help millions of older Americans file for free are already preparing for next year’s filing season. Their work begins months before tax forms arrive, and knowing about these programs early can help retirees avoid expensive preparation fees, claim overlooked tax breaks, and secure an appointment before schedules fill up. If you’re 60 or older, here is what you need to know about free tax counseling services before appointment calendars begin filling up next filing season.