Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker helped kickoff the 'Claim Your Money Philly' campaign on Wednesday. The effort hopes to ensure Philly residents get the funds they are eligible for this tax season
The city of Philadelphia is launching a campaign to reach residents who, officials said, missed out on at least $2,000 last tax season.
The campaign is called "Claim Your Money Philly" and is focused on the importance of filing for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC).
Officials want taxpayers to take advantage of free tax prep sites across the city and claim the credits they are due.
The program was launched six years ago by the Philly mayor's Office of Community Empowerment and Opportunity and with the help of nonprofits, offers tax preparation and filing services to make it easier for Philadelphians.
The city said that the average federal tax refund is $2,250 and can even be as high as $7,830.
To be eligible for the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit you must:
To be eligible for the Child Tax Credit:
The city emphasized that if you get a refund when filing taxes, you do not need to pay back the amount. Any refunds will not impact SNAP or Medicaid benefits.
The deadline to file is April 15, but city leaders urge every Philadelphian to file as soon as possible.