Jim Kenney to poorest: Come and get hard-earned tax credits
Tens of thousands of Philadelphia's poorest citizens leave millions of dollars in federal tax credits on the table each tax season. This year, the city is making a new effort to see that money claimed.
Tens of thousands of Philadelphia's poorest citizens leave millions of dollars in federal tax credits on the table each tax season. This year, the city is making a new effort to see that money claimed.
The city announced Friday that it will provide free tax preparation services at nearly 30 locations for many who are eligible for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), part of an outreach program called "You Earned It."
An estimated 40,000 Philadelphians eligible for the tax credit have not taken it, leaving about $100 million in tax credits unclaimed, according to the city's revenue department. The tax break ranges from $503 to $6,242, and the average unclaimed amount in Philadelphia is about $2,400, officials said.
Eligibility varies depending on whether the person files alone or jointly, as well as the number of dependents, but the maximum income levels range from $14,820 to $53,267.
To be eligible for the city's free tax services, taxpayers must have earned income and meet the EITC income limits, be between ages 25 and 65 or have a dependent child, and be a U.S. citizen or foreigner who is a permanent resident.
A list of locations where tax preparation services are available can be found at YouEarnedItPhilly.com or by calling 215-686-9200.
215-854-2730
@TriciaNadolny