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Earned Income Tax Credit Program May Put Money Back in Taxpayer’s Pockets
Date: January 24, 2007
Contact: Valerie Kime Trujillo, Resource Development Specialist (480) 312-2464
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is on a quest to help taxpayers, including those in Scottsdale, put more than $4,500 back in their pockets – that’s why the city is helping the organization promote Feb. 1 as “National EITC Day.”
The EITC Program presents an important opportunity to lift people out of poverty. As the largest federal tax benefit program, it has put $36 billion into the hands of hard-working people nationwide who earn low wages. Eligible taxpayers could receive up to $4,536 for tax year 2006.
In Scottsdale, for tax year 2004 (the latest figures available) 7,881 residents received EITC that amounted to more than $10.3 million. The average resident received $1,307 in tax credit. It is estimated that 20 to 25 percent of those who are eligible do not claim the tax credit. This accounts for millions of lost dollars to those in need each year.
Scottsdale resident Laura Holly Pennington was living with her two young children in a homeless shelter less than seven years ago. Although homeless, she did have a job and earned enough money to file income tax. Her tax preparer told her she was eligible for the tax credit. With that money, Pennington was able to buy a car and move into an apartment. Since then, she’s been able to stay on her feet. “Getting that money was life changing,” she says. This year, Pennington plans to use her return to pay off some bills and put money toward the down payment on a home of her own.
Residents can find out if they’re eligible for the EITC and/or free tax preparation by calling one of the following phone numbers. AARP tax-aide volunteers will prepare federal and state income tax returns at no charge to those who qualify by appointment only beginning in February.
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Granite Reef Senior Center
1700 N. Granite Reef
Tel: (480) 312-1734
Feb. 1 through Apr. 16
Mon. through Fri.
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
Via Linda Senior Center
10440 E. Via Linda
Tel: (480) 312-5810
Feb.1 through Apr. 13
Tues. through Fri.
8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. |
Paiute Neighborhood Center
6535 E. Osborn Road
Tel: (480) 312-2529
Feb.1 through Apr. 13
Thur. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Bilingual services available |
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