Taxes may not be fun, but some San Diegans qualify to receive money back.
On Friday, local agencies put a spotlight on one way to do so: the Earned Income Tax Credit, also known as the EITC.
It’s for low-to-moderate-income families.
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The local group 211 San Diego is urging people who are eligible to claim their tax credits before tax season ends on April 18.
The organization's CEO, Bill York, said the money saved could go toward rent, utilities, groceries, tuition and other important expenses.
“So just last year our 211 team answered 27,000 calls from people who had questions about EITC. We take the time, we’ll walk you through eligibility, we’ll talk about your tax appointment,” he said.
United Way of San Diego County and the EITC Coalition are also working to get the word out. And tax preparation is being done by the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, known as VITA.
VITA program coordinator Carmen Ruiz said state tax credits now apply to all California tax filers, including undocumented filers who meet the other eligibility criteria.
“Even if they didn't make the legal limit — if they're under $12,000 in income — they should still file if they have withholdings because they could qualify for earned income credit, different credits that go to them,” Ruiz said.
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Their services are free, and no appointment is required. San Diego resident Crystal Casillas got help through the program.
“It's my first time using this program. It's actually a blessing because I'm a single mom of two kids and an extra $300 not paying as a taxpayer, it's a plus,” she said.
Individuals and families can call 211 or visit 211sandiego.org/taxes to see if they qualify for the federal EITC, and other tax credits.
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