Casey: Thousands of Pennsylvanians Could Miss Out On Earned Income Tax Credit

Press Release

With tax day approaching, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) today urged Pennsylvanians to file for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC boosts economic growth across Pennsylvania but, according to IRS estimates, one-fifth of eligible workers do not claim this important credit.

"I want to encourage all eligible Pennsylvanians to file for the Earned Income Tax Credit," said Senator Casey. "The Earned Income Tax credit plays a key role in boosting economic growth and sustaining job creation across our state. Having more eligible Pennsylvanians take advantage of this tax credit will have a positive impact on the economy."

Almost 900,000 Pennsylvania families claim the EITC annually, with the average family receiving around $2,000. A study by the University of North Carolina found that more than two-thirds of EITC recipients spend most of their refunds on immediate expenses, spending that contributes more than $1.8 billion to Pennsylvania's economy each year. Another study found that every dollar in EITC refunds generates an extra $1.58 in local economic activity. This brings millions of dollars to virtually every county and helps to create jobs across the Commonwealth.

Additionally, the EITC is a very effective anti-poverty tool. The Center for Budget Policies and Priorities has demonstrated that the credit significantly increases the employment and earnings of its recipients, particularly for single mothers, while data from the Brookings Institution shows that the EITC helped lift 166,000 Pennsylvanians out of poverty between 2009-2011, including more than 83,000 children.

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