State Representative Scott Dianda (D-Calumet) today reminded Michigan’s low-income working families that the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can mean extra money back in their tax refund.
“Many families here in the Upper Peninsula still qualify for this valuable tax credit,” said Dianda. “Any little extra income helps and claiming the EITC, no matter how small the credit may be based on income, is something I want to encourage.”
To qualify for the EITC, a person must have earned income from a job and meet certain income requirements. There is both a federal EITC and a Michigan EITC. The Michigan EITC is equal to 6 percent of your federal credit for tax year 2012.
“The EITC benefits those families that are hard workers but just might not make enough in this economy,” continued Dianda. “Those families, in turn, spend that money locally benefitting local economies and small businesses. Please be sure to check if you qualify for this credit on this year’s taxes.”
Dianda also reminds people that there are many organizations and groups that offer free tax preparation for many taxpayers. Residents of the western Upper Peninsula counties can call 2-1-1 for more information. People can also visit www.michiganfreetaxhelp.org for groups, locations and phone numbers.