Earned Income Tax Credit Can Put Money in Your Pocket

You could be cheating yourself at tax time, even if you are not required to file a tax return. The IRS estimates that one in four eligible taxpayers will overlook the Earned Income Tax Credit – or EITC. Last year the average return for Washington State filers was $1985 and the maximum is up to $5,600. It is estimated that the EITC program returns more than $2 million each year to eligible Shoreline residents. Non-traditional families such as grandparents raising grandchildren, childless workers, and taxpayers with limited English proficiency are among those most likely to overlook the credit.

 Bring the documents you need to get the EITC you deserve including driver’s license or photo identification, Social Security cards for all persons listed on the return, all income statements (W-2, Social Security, Unemployment) or other documents showing taxes withheld and prior year’s return if available. If you want your refund directly deposited into your bank or credit union, bring a voided check or bank statement with your account identification.

Free tax preparation sites to help you file your 2010 return and get the EITC refund, if you qualify.

 King County Library Sites

Richmond Beach Branch, 19601 21^st Ave. NW, Fridays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. beginning Feb. 4. Tax filers should schedule an appointment by calling (206) 365-1536. The site operates until April 15. Appointments have priority but walk-ins will be accommodated as time permits.

Shoreline Library, 345 NE 175^th St., Thursdays February 3^rd  - April 14^th  4:30 to 8:00 PM. Saturdays February 5 – April 9, Noon to 4:00 PM. No appointment necessary.

Hopelink Shoreline Center, 15809 Westminster (Aurora Square next to Marshall’s), starting January  19^th,  Wednesday and Thursday’s 5:00 – 9:00 PM and Saturday’s 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. No appointment necessary. The site operates until April 14^th.

 For a list of all free tax preparation sites in King County call 2-1-1.

 To qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, tax filers must have incomes under the limits listed below.

• $13,440 ($18,440 married filing jointly) if you do not have a qualifying child.
• $35,463 ($40,463 married filing jointly) if you have one qualifying child.
• $40,295 ($45,295 married filing jointly) if you have two qualifying children.
• $43,279 ($48,279 married filing jointly) if you have three or more qualifying children.
• Investment income cannot be more than $3,100.

Families with children may also apply for the Child Tax Credit, worth up to $1,000 per qualifying child. Additional credits are also available to working families for the cost of child care, but you will need to bring documentation of your child care expenses including the child care agency’s tax I.D. or the Social Security number of the provider.