Foreclosures, unemployment, underemployment and debt have affected all too many Arizonans this past year, but Valley of the Sun United Way wants the public to know that their financial doldrums may have an up side this tax season – in the form of a federal income tax credit. More workers than ever could be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, which can put up to $5,666 into their pockets.

Families or individuals who earned $48,362 or less in 2010 may qualify to receive EITC, but they can only get it if they file federal income tax returns and specifically claim the credit.

“During these difficult economic times claiming the EITC could bring much-needed relief to thousands of individuals struggling to make ends meet,” said Valley of the Sun United Way Senior Vice President of Community Impact, Brian Spicker. “Nationwide, approximately 20 percent of eligible individuals do not claim EITC and we are doing our part to close this gap in Maricopa County,” he added.

Last year, 520,722 Arizonans received nearly $1.2 billion in EITC refunds and, nationwide, $58 billion was claimed.

Taxpayers can get FREE help determining their EITC eligibility, claiming the credit, and filing their taxes at any number of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites throughout the Valley. Available only during tax season, VITA sites are staffed by trained volunteers and run by various community partners, including Valley of the Sun United Way. Increasing the financial stability of individuals and families is a key goal for Valley of the Sun United Way, and connecting community members to resources such as VITA sites is critical to achieving this end.  

To help accurately determine their EITC eligibility and prepare their returns, VITA site visitors should bring the following items with them:
• Social Security cards or IRS ITIN card or ITIN letter for all household members
• Picture ID for taxpayer (and spouse)
• Birth dates for all persons listed on the tax return
• Proof of all income, including W-2 and 1099 forms
• Name, address, and tax ID# of childcare provider
• Amount of money paid to childcare provider last year
• Account and routing numbers for direct deposit
• Copy of last year’s tax return, if available
To electronically file their returns and get the fastest refunds, both spouses must be present to sign joint returns.

To check Earned Income Tax Credit eligibility, go to www.irs.gov or visit a VITA site. For a full list of local VITA sites, contact Community Information and Referral at (602) 263-8856 or visit www.cir.org/tax.

About Valley of the Sun United Way
Valley of the Sun United Way is working to advance the common good by focusing on education, income and health. Our goal is to create long-lasting and measurable changes that improve the quality of life for struggling individuals, families and children throughout Maricopa County. For more information visit, www.vsuw.org