Tough Economy: More May Qualify For Earned Income Tax Credits

The EITC is a refundable tax credit for low to moderate income workers.

“People who have lost their jobs or had to take a cut in pay may not know that they are eligible,” said Todd Landry, Director of the Division of Children and Family Services. “We want to help those people get the tax credits they deserve. That’s why DHHS works with community organizations to provide free tax preparation assistance to low income individuals and families under the EITC program.”

IRS-certified volunteers are available across the state to provide free assistance with tax preparation to eligible people. To find a location near you, or, if you have eligibility questions, call 2-1-1 or 1-877-557-2200.

Federal tax credits include:

* Earned Income Tax Credit – up to $4,716
* Child Tax Credit – up to $1,000 per child
* Child and Dependent Care Tax Credits – up to $2,100

“Earned income tax credit can be claimed by a wide range of people,” said Landry. “It’s based on income and filing status. For example, childless singles making less than $12,880 a year are eligible, as are married couples with two or more children making less than $41,646 annually.” -- www.hhs.state.ne.us