What is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Campaign?
Since 2003, the city of Phoenix Human Services Department has endorsed a citywide community Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Campaign. The city's EITC campaign consists of three areas: public awareness and information about the credit, free tax preparation sites and financial education classes for children and adults. A coalition of more than 100 faith-based, private and public entities worked together to reach out to eligible households and disseminate information about the campaign. In the course of the campaigns, more than 41,000 low- and moderate-income families received more than $41 million in federal refunds at free tax preparation sites. These tax preparation services created an estimated savings in transaction costs of more than $11 million.
What is EITC?
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a federal tax credit for qualified low-income workers. It was established in 1975 and is considered the nation's most effective anti-poverty program for working families. Annually, the EITC lifts approximately four million people out of poverty, including more than two million children.
Who is eligible?
You, your spouse (if you are filing a joint return) and any qualifying children listed on your tax return with a valid social security number may be eligible.
Where are the free VITA tax preparation sites?
Tax preparation sites are hosted by governmental, faith-based and community organizations throughout the city of Phoenix. Trained and certified VITA volunteers prepare taxes at no cost. Services are provided from January to the April 17, 2012 filing deadline.
View a map and list of city VITA tax preparation sites
What must I bring with me?
- Social Security and/or ITIN cards for all listed on the return
- Picture ID
- All documents with income or withholding (W-2 and 1099 Forms)
- Information for other income
- Information for all deductions and/or credits
- A copy of last year's tax returns, if available
- Proof of account for direct deposit of refund (e.g. voided check)
- If married filing joint returns, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms
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What is VITA? The EITC Initiative is an entirely volunteer-driven project. Volunteers are needed to help return millions of dollars annually to Phoenix families. How do I become a VITA volunteer? Visit our VITA Volunteer Page for additional details and to apply.
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For more information, call 602-262-6658 or e-mail eitc@phoenix.gov.