Today at El Centro del Pueblo in Echo Park, we got this tax season off to the right start by letting residents know that free tax assistance is available. During this period of financial instability, families throughout Los Angeles need as much support as possible.
Most residents can't afford to hire an accountant to sift through the pages of the federal tax code and too many assume that they have nowhere to turn for assistance. So today, we sent a clear message to low-income residents: We will not allow you to miss the opportunity to cash in on your hard work.
We want to ensure that all qualifying households can reap the benefits of the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC. Local families can visit Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites and receive FREE help with their tax returns.
Tax preparation experts will be on-hand to take you step-by-step through the process and make sure low-income, working Angelenos claim the EITC - one of the most effective ways to alleviate poverty and one of the surest routes to sound financial footing.
In 2009, local VITA and AARP Tax-Aide sites helped residents collect approximately $13.5 million in extra tax credits-a 23% increase from previous year-and $36.8 million in total tax refunds-a 45% increase. Through the help of nearly 2,000 volunteers, we saved over 39,000 low-to-moderate income tax filers $6 million in basic tax preparation fees.
This year, the credit can translate to a refund of up to $5,657, a figure that can equal nearly two months of income for many families.
And this year, through our FamilySource Centers and One-e-App system, we have added 21 additional free tax preparation sites which include screening for EITC eligibility.
The success of this effort rests on volunteers, so if you believe in this program like I do consider donating some time to make sure Los Angeles families get the tax credits they deserve.
To determine your eligibility for EITC or learn about volunteer opportunities, dial 2-1-1 or go to http://www.EITC-LA.com.
No hard-working family should ever lose the chance to get ahead - especially when resources exist and assistance is available. Together, let's make this tax season a bit more pleasant for everyone.