EITC, Earned Income Tax Credit Brings Tax Relief to Ohio's Hardest Hit Families

Statement

With tax filing season underway, Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge urges the media and all segments of the community to join her in promoting awareness of the EITC, Earned Income Tax Credit. The EITC is a refundable federal income tax credit for low income working individuals and families.

In 2009, more than 65,000 residents of the 11th Congressional District received earned income credits totaling $160,744,233. The average credit amount was $2,364. Statewide, over 950,000 low income Ohio workers received the credit. "More families and individuals in our community received the earned income credit than in any other district in Ohio," said Congresswoman Fudge. "While I'm pleased so many residents were able to take advantage of the credit in the past, many hardworking households continue to struggle in our troubled economy. More workers may qualify due to reduced incomes. The only way to receive the credit however, is to file and specifically claim it."

The EITC results in a tax refund when the credit exceeds the amount of taxes owed. To learn more about the Earned Income Tax Credit, see IRS Publication 596, Earned Income Credit. This publication is available in both English and Spanish and can be downloaded from the IRS website or ordered by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Source