AMARILLO, TEXAS -- How would you like to get up to $5,000 back this year when filing your taxes? It's part of the Earned Income Tax Credit. A credit that many people don't know they even qualify for. So United Way of Amarillo and Canyon and Bank of America have teamed up to host 4 free Earned Income Tax Credit Clinics. Those who live in Potter and Randall County who are considered working class can have their taxes prepared and filed for free. So, how do you find out if you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit?
"If your family earns less than $49,000 a year you maybe very well eligible for an earned income tax credit. And I would encourage for you to call 2-1-1 and visit with an INR specialist that answers your phone call and he or she will help you determine your eligibility," said Frankie Francel, Executive Director of the United Way.
"Every 5th person that could get this is not enjoying this income. And this is income that could be used for a lot of things. You can pay down your mortgage, you can pay rent, pay your credit card debit. We're encouraging people to use the income to make their family more financial stable," added Francel.
In fact, according to the Center for Public Policy Priorities, each year the EITC pumps billions of dollars into our state's economy, while at the same time, helping more the 450,000 Texans out of poverty. But close to 15 to 20% of eligible families and individuals do not file a claim because they are unaware of the credit.
This is the 1st year for United Way to hold these free clinics and say they're excited for their 2-1-1 specialist to help you and discuss other services that could help you.
"We have 2-1-1 staff working during these clinics and they will point out to the families by interviewing the families kind of finding out what their needs are. If they have any other needs we will be giving those families actually referrals for services," said Francel.
If you're interested the free clinics will be held on Saturday's from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm starting February 26th, March 12th & 26th, and April 9th at the Guyon Sanders Resource Center at 200 S. Tyler in Amarillo.
