Dear friend,
Tax season has already begun. On Monday, January 24th, the tax agency began accepting and processing 2021 tax returns. April 18th marks the deadline for filing 2021 tax returns, requesting a filing extension, and it’s also the deadline to pay taxes owed to prevent fees from mounting up. There are free resources to help you this tax season that I hope will make the process easier for you.
If you are eligible, you can receive free tax preparation help through the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. To find information on free taxpayer services in Milwaukee please click here.
Resources on the EITC
Today is also EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit) Awareness Day! The EITC can provide relief for low and middle-income workers and families by reducing their taxes owed or increasing their tax refund. This is a tax break for working people that can provide great relief. I am a champion of the EITC and am working to expand this credit to reach more people and honor unpaid work.
I encourage you all to check your eligibility to make sure you don’t leave any money on the table! Visit their website to see if you qualify, learn how to claim the EITC, and see if there are any other credits you could be eligible for.
Child Tax Credit and Tax Filing Information
Earlier this year, as part of the American Rescue Plan, families were provided an expanded Child Tax Credit (CTC) of up to $3,600 for all qualifying children under age 6 and up to $3,000 for qualifying children between the ages of 6-17. Many of you might have received part of the credit in a monthly payment. When you file your taxes this year, you will receive the remainder of the eligible credit amount.
If you qualify for the CTC but didn’t receive any payments, you will receive the full credit when you file your taxes. To check your eligibility for the maximum or partial CTC and to receive CTC payments, please visit ChildTaxCredit.gov.
This tax credit was an acknowledgement that raising children is expensive and families need support because buying new school clothes and school supplies all add up! I am so glad this credit reached families in Milwaukee; and I am working to renew this lifeline for each of you.
Your friend,
Gwen
