Resources for Tax Season
Tax Day is April 18. Here are some tips and resources regarding taxes that you may find helpful.
Earned Income Tax Credit
Many people do not apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) because they do not realize they are eligible. There is both a federal and state EITC. You may qualify for the federal EITC if you have a qualifying child. You may still be eligible to claim the EITC without a qualifying child if you meet specific requirements. You are generally also eligible for the Illinois EITC if you are eligible for the federal one. If you have not applied for the EITC in the past, you can claim it for up to three years prior. To see if you qualify, use the EITC Assistant at https://apps.irs.gov/app/eitc.
If you can’t pay taxes
Taking action if you cannot pay taxes is important to avoid penalties and interest charges. You may consider getting an installment plan (an agreement to pay your debt in smaller portions over some time) or an Offer in Compromise (an agreement to pay less than what you owe) with the IRS or request placement in their “Currently Not Collectible” category. For more information on these options, visit the IRS website (www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc202) and Illinois Legal Aid Online (www.illinoislegalaid.org).
Tax Resources
- Interactive Tax Assistant - A tool on the IRS website that helps people answer their tax questions. All information provided by the user is anonymous. This resource is available at www.irs.gov/help/ita.
- Low Income Tax Clinic - Prairie State Legal Services has a hotline to help low-income persons with issues involving IRS action or debt. Contact the Clinic hotline at 855-829-7757.
- Free help filing taxes - The Northwest Community Center in Rockford (1325 N. Johnston Ave) offers free help with tax preparation. To schedule an appointment, call 815-964-6885.
- For helpful information on tax law and other legal issues, visit Illinois Legal Aid Online (www.illinoislegalaid.org).