The Problem
Despite the significant gains brought through the EITC, there are several obstacles faced by eligible families. Many low-income families do not know about EITC. The IRS estimates that 4 million eligible individuals fail to file for the EITC, which translates to almost $3 billion dollars. In 1999, less than 50% of the very poor (less than 50% of the federal poverty level) knew about EITC. Low-income Hispanic families are much less likely to know about or receive the EITC.

Volunteers are the Link
Volunteers play a crucial role in empowering low-income families to achieve a more secure economic future. Volunteers from all backgrounds and abilities play a role in free tax preparation services, and don’t need to be an accountant to help.

• Greet the people who come for free tax preparation
• Prepare taxes
• Share information about financial literacy and asset building opportunities
• Serve as translators
• Provide childcare for families having their taxes done

Residents of low-income communities play a special role in local tax coalitions. These volunteers bring credibility, time, and talent necessary to effectively spread the word about the service within their community and help neighbors.

The Foundation is committed to supporting and improving the lives of children and families by engaging more volunteers more effectively in the efforts of local tax coalitions nationwide.

Join us in building a stronger economic future for low-income families!

Click here to learn about the Earned Income Tax Credit and Asset Building Initiative, sponsored by Capital One.

The EITC and Asset Development web pages are made possible through the generous support of Capital One.