Subscribe To Our Blog

Email Updates
To sign up for updates or to access your subscriber preferences, please enter your contact information below.

Friday, January 30, 2015

Are You Eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit?

Today is Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day in Washington.

Low-income people can reduce or eliminate the amount of federal income taxes they pay by claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit on their 2014 income tax returns. Some may even qualify for a lump-sum payment if the credit exceeds the amount of taxes owed.

Last year, the average Earned Income Tax Credit refund in Washington was $2,145 per person. Many Washington households, including seniors, those with lower incomes, and non-English speaking residents, do not know they are eligible or how to claim the credit.

Individuals can receive a tax refund of up to $6,143 depending on their eligibility. Even if no federal income tax is owed, a tax return must be filed in order to claim the money. The Department of Commerce and Department of Social and Health Services are partnering with other agencies and organizations across the state to raise awareness about the Earned Income Tax Credit and resources for free tax return preparation.

How To Find Out If You Qualify
Individuals can find out if they qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit by visiting the Internal Revenue Service website at http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/EITC-Home-Page-Its-easier-than-ever-to-find-out-if-you-qualify-for-EITC .

Free tax preparation services are available to many low- and moderate-income families, by calling 2-1-1 and asking for “free tax preparation locations” or searching “free tax prep” at www.irs.gov.