The Earned Income Tax Credit or the EITC is a tax credit for low income working individuals and families.
For 2008 the amount of income you can earn to claim the credit has increased as found on the IRS website:
To be eligible for the EITC you must file a tax return and meet certain requirments:
If you do not have a qualifying child, you must:
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) offers free tax help to low-to-moderate-income (generally, $42,000 and below) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Certified volunteers sponsored by various organizations receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. VITA sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations. Most locations also offer free electronic filing.
AARP is participating in the Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program which provides free tax help to people 60 and older that are of low-to-middle income. The program provides free tax counseling and basic income tax return preparation.
To locate the nearest VITA or AARP site, call 1-800-829-1040.
Visit the IRS website to determine if you qualify for the EITC.
It’s your money – go claim it!