Tax credit benefits still available

It’s not too late for eligible families to collect their Earned Income Tax Credit refunds, the Yolo County Children’s Alliance announced this week. Through Oct. 15, the local organization will continue to offer free income tax assistance in West Sacramento. More than 100 families already have collected thousands of dollars, a spokeswoman said.

“We are extremely pleased to have helped so many families during our very first year of offering this service,” said Yolo County Supervisor Don Saylor, who chairs the Yolo County Children’s Alliance. “Last year, because many taxpayers were unaware of the program or assumed they were not eligible, Yolo County residents failed to claim more than $4 million in EITCs.”

The alliance is offering the tax assistance service at its Alyce Norman Educational Center office at 1200 Anna St., Portable # 21, in West Sacramento.

“By getting the word out, we hope to help working families obtain the tax credit refunds for which they are eligible,” said Katie Villegas, Children’s Alliance executive director.

Who is eligible? Many people will qualify for this assistance this year for the first time due to declining income, change in marital status, or the addition of children to the household. Families earning up to $49,000 from wages or self-employment are eligible for free tax assistance. In order to qualify to receive the Earned Income Tax Credit, taxpayers must file federal income tax returns and specifically claim the credit. The amount of the return in based on income and family size.

The office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are required on Thursdays.

Participants should bring:

* Photo identification;

*Valid Social Security cards for the taxpayer, spouse and dependents (a signature of both spouses is required for a joint return, so both parties must be present. Dependents do not need to be present. A valid ITIN number will be accepted;

* Birth dates for primary, secondary and dependents to be claimed on return;

* Wage and earning statement(s) Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, from all employers;

* Interest and dividend statements from banks (Form 1099);

* A copy of last year’s federal and state returns;

* Bank routing numbers and account numbers for direct deposit; and

* Other relevant information about income and expenses, including total paid for day care and the provider’s identifying number

The Yolo County Children’s Alliance is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the health and well-being of Yolo County children, youths and their families. The 45-member alliance represents Yolo County agencies, community-based organizations, parents and individuals, who are all energetic advocates for children and youths.

For more information, call the (866) 607-4030 or (916) 572-0560.