Millions In Tax Credits Waiting To Be Claimed By Low And Moderate-Income Families In Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- With just two weeks left in tax season, city officials are reminding low and moderate-income residents to see if they're eligible for earned income tax credits.
Far more Philadelphians qualify for the credits than ever take advantage of them.
The tax credits have been called the best anti-poverty program the government offers because they provide cash, anywhere from $500 to $6000. That can mean the difference between struggling and making ends meet. But it can't help if it's not claimed.
Last year, 40,000 eligible Philadelphians failed to apply, losing out on an estimated $100-million -- so the city has partnered with nonprofits to raise awareness and help fill out returns at special tax prep sites.
Revenue Commissioner Frank Breslin says it's paying off.
"We've had more than 10,000 tax returns prepared," Breslin says, "and more than $8-million in earned income tax refunds have been claimed so far this tax season."
All the information about eligibility and how to claim the credit can be found here: http://www.youearneditphilly.com/)
