Friday kicks off annual promotion of FREE tax return preparation centers to help thousands of people claim Earned Income Tax Credit payment from IRS
REVISED on February 10, 2014
Now is the time to learn how to apply for your share of millions in Earned Income Tax Credit(EITC) dollars available to eligible families and individuals from the Internal Revenue Service. Gov. Jay Inslee proclaimed Friday, January 31, “Earned Income Tax Credit Day” to help raise awareness of this federal program that goes unused by about 20 percent of workers who are qualified to receive a check for up to $6,044.
Millions of dollars may go unclaimed by Washington residents eligible to receive the credit because they don’t file a tax return.
“Last year, the average Earned Income Tax Credit refund was more than $2,100,” said Gov. Inslee. “Many Washington households do not know they are eligible or know how to claim the credit. By raising awareness and offering free resources at tax preparation centers around the state, we’re helping families and individuals, and giving a boost to our state’s economy.”
Thousands of working families and individuals in Washington do not apply for the credit each year, missing out on their share of the money. Seniors, individuals with low incomes, and non-English speaking taxpayers account for many of the unclaimed credits because they don’t realize they are eligible. Last year, 438,000 people applied for the credit, bringing close to $920 million into the state’s economy.
The Washington State Department of Commerce and DSHS Economic Services are teaming up with the IRS, AARP Tax Aide, Washington State Asset Building Coalitions, Community Action agencies, United Way agencies, financial institutions, and credit unions across the state to remind people that they must file a 2013 federal income tax return to receive the EITC – even if they owe no tax. Communities throughout Washington are taking part in national EITC Day tomorrow to promote the tax credit.
Groups promoting the EITC have a simple message; It’s money you’ve earned – file it, claim it and get it. Any individual or couple who worked in 2013 should file for the EITC. The amount of the credit depends on family size and gross income.
The eligibility requirements are:
• With three or more qualifying children, income less than $46,227 or $51,567 if married filing jointly. Maximum refund: 6,044.
- With two qualifying children, income less than $43,038 or $48,378 if married filing jointly. Maximum refund: $5,372.
- With one qualifying child, income less than $37,870 or $43,210 married filing jointly. Maximum refund: $3,250.
- With no children, income less than $14,340 or $19,680 married filing jointly. Maximum refund: $487.
Free Tax Preparation Services
From January 31st to April 15th individuals needing assistance in preparing their tax return can receive help through Volunteer Income Tax Sites or the AARP Tax-Aide Program. Individuals may also call 2-1-1 to find the nearest free tax preparation site.