Free Tax Preparation
The Campaign files both federal and PA state income taxes for working families. We strive to insure that working people take full advantage of public benefits available to them including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a refundable tax credit for low-wage earners. This year the credit may offer an adult with three or more qualifying children a refund of up to $5,657.
To find a free tax site near you, click here or call the City of Philadelphia's Help Line by dialing 3-1-1 after January 1st. This phone line has information in English and Spanish.
Para información y asistencia con los impuestos, haga clic aquí.
Eligibility
Who is eligible for free tax preparation?
- Philadelphia families earning less than $50,000 per year
- Individuals earning less than $20,000 per year
Income limitations for receiving the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for Tax Year 2009:
| Adjusted Gross Income less than: | |||
| Head of Household | Married Filing Jointly | Maximum Credit | |
| Three or More Qualifying Children | $43,279 | $48,279 | $5,657 |
| Two Qualifying Children | $40,295 | $45,295 | $5,028 |
| One Qualifying Child | $35,463 | $40,463 | $3,043 |
| No Qualifying Children | $13,440 | $18,440 | $457 |
For more information about EITC, visit the IRS website.
What to Bring:
Please bring all of the documents listed below that apply to you when you visit one of The Campaign for Working Families free tax preparation locations.
- W-2s and other wage statements you and your spouse received from all your employers for the previous tax year.
- Social Security cards for yourself and everyone in the household that you support, including your spouse, and children, grandchildren, relatives and foster children.
- The dates of birth for all people you are claiming as dependents.
- Your driver's license or other state issued photo ID card, and for spouse if applicable.
- Last year's tax return, if you have one, as well as any additional items (such as mortgage statements) that you think may impact your tax return, even if you are not sure.
- All paystubs from the past month (not necessary for tax preparation, but may bring in more money to your family through public benefits).
- If you received any 1099 forms during the previous year, bring them. You may have 1099 forms if you received income from Social Security, Railroad Retirement, Unemployment, Interest, or Dividend Income.
- If you paid for day care in the past year, bring your co-pay statement for Day Care for the previous year, including the social security number or EIN of your day care provider, the Providers name, and the day care address.
- If you received any advance child tax credit payment in the previous year, bring in Notice 1319, showing proof of the amount received.
- If you paid for higher education, such as college or a trade school, bring form 1098-T showing evidence of payment.
- If you would like to get your refund by direct deposit, bring a blank check from your bank account.
- If filing jointly, both filer and spouse must be present to sign.
Questions? Contact the City of Philadelphia Helpline by dialing 3-1-1.
