Are You or Someone You Know Eligible to Claim Tax Credits of Up to $5,751? 

Each year, thousands of Central Floridians claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which puts dollars back in to the hands of low- to moderate-income families and individuals.

For those who qualify, tax credits of more than $5,700 are available for tax year 2011. And the money is easy to claim. 

Throughout tax season, dozens of free tax preparation sites will be available across the region to help people file their returns. Many families use the extra dollars to reduce debt, learn new job skills, increase savings or build financial stability in other ways.

Even if you missed your opportunity to benefit for tax year 2010, the good news is that the EITC can be claimed retroactively for up to three years. 

What is the Prosperity Campaign of Central Florida?

United Way's Prosperity Campaign of Central Florida promotes financial stability for local families. One key way of doing this is through the EITC, which is credited with lifting more children out of poverty than any other federal program. At a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet, EITC dollars can be used to reduce debt, improve job skills, build savings or take other steps to improve financial stability, which is one of United Way's primary focus areas.

Did You Know?

EITC also provides a significant boost to the local economy. Last year alone, refunds worth $516 million were distributed in Central Florida, where many dollars were spent on food, housing, car repairs, home improvements and other needs.     

Among other qualifying factors, you must have:

• Earned income in 2011
• A valid Social Security number
• No more than $3,100 in investment income
• Joint tax-filing status, if married
• U.S. citizenship or resident alien status for the past year (in most cases)

Income guidelines for tax year 2011:

Individuals: 

• $13,660 with no qualifying children
• $36,052 with one qualifying child
• $40,964 with two qualifying children
• $43,998 with three or more qualifying children

Married couples filing jointly:

• $18,740 with no qualifying children
• $41,132 with one qualifying child
• $46,044 with two qualifying children
• $49,078 with three or more qualifying children

Maximum refunds for tax year 2011:

• $464 with no qualifying children
• $3,094 with one qualifying child
• $5,112 with two qualifying children
• $5,751 with three or more qualifying children

Want to learn more?

Click here for more information or dial 2-1-1 to speak with knowledgeable staff at the United Way 2-1-1 & Elder Helpline. 

2011 Sponsors:

Pine Hills Project