Ventura County residents are encouraged to take advantage of ways to put more money back in their pocket with the help of United Way of Ventura County’s (UWVC) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA).
Throughout February to May, volunteers at free VITA tax preparation sites will help working families and individuals file their state and federal tax return and access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Households earning up to $56,000 in 2019 are eligible to use the free services of a VITA site.
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a tax credit for low- to moderate-income working families and individuals. The EITC can help you reduce your tax liability and, in many cases, save you money. To qualify for the EITC, you must have worked at least part of 2019 and meet certain income requirements.
In addition to the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, the state Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) is also available to families and individuals in California. Most recently in 2019, California’s EITC is available for households with adjusted gross incomes of less than $30,000 regardless of qualifying children. California EITC requires earned income reported on a W-2 form, such as wages, salaries, and tips, and self-employment income (such as 1099 and cash-earnings).
This year, the state of California is introducing the new Young Child Tax Credit which can also give families a tax benefit. If you meet the CalEITC requirement and have a child under the age of 6 by the end of the tax year, you may also qualify to receive $1,000 per family.
Together, these state credits can put hundreds or even thousands of dollars back into the pockets of individuals and families. Appointments are available by calling 2-1-1. The VITA is through May 2, 2020.
City of Ventura Housing Authority, 375 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura
Ventura Community Service Center, 4651 Telephone Road, #200, Ventura
For more, visit https://vcunitedway.org/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita/ or call 2-1-1.
Since 1945, United Way of Ventura County has advanced the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. Our focus is on education, income and health, because these are the building blocks for a good quality of life. We support local services and programs that are more than just ‘stop gap’ measures, but rather solutions that help create lasting change. We invite everyone to be part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. When we work together in common purpose, we LIVE UNITED. For more information about United Way of Ventura County, visit www.vcunitedway.org.
