Tax Credits for Families

You may be eligible for tax credits

It’s tax season and the opportunity for you to get money back!
CDA has partnered with 2-1-1 San Diego and several other community organizations across San Diego to ensure all families and individuals take advantage of several tax credits available this year.

In 2022 tax season, $29,949,748 in Federal and State tax credits were awarded. Don’t miss out on free money!

Call 2-1-1 San Diego to schedule a FREE in-person or virtual online tax assistance appointments through VITA. Eligibility requirements apply.

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What are tax credits?

A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar amount taxpayers claim on their tax return to reduce the income tax they owe. Eligible taxpayers can use them to reduce their tax bill and potentially increase their refund. The amount of tax credits depends on your income and family size.

There are a couple of Federal and State tax credits you and your family may be eligible for.

Federal Tax Credits

Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC)

is a federal tax credit for working people who have earned $64,000 or less. Individuals/families who file taxes with a Social Security number may be eligible.

Child Tax Credit (CTC) 

is a federal tax credit for working people who have earned a low to moderate income and have a child under the age of 17 years old. You may be eligible to receive a cash refund or reduce the amount of tax you owe.

 

State Tax Credits

California Earned Income Tax Credits (CalEITC)

is a state tax credit for working people who have earned $30,950 or less. The amount of CalEITC you get depends on your income and family size. You may be eligible to receive a cash refund or reduce the amount of tax you owe.

 

Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) 

is a state tax credit for working people who have a child under the age of 6. You may be eligible to receive a cash refund or reduce the amount of tax you owe.

 

What do I need to do?

The deadline to file your taxes was extended!
File your 2023 taxes by June 17, 2024 to find out if you are eligible to any of these tax credits. 

Make an Appointment
Call 2-1-1 San Diego to schedule a FREE in-person or virtual online tax assistance appointments through VITA. Eligibility requirements apply.
File Online
File your own taxes for FREE using the United Way of California website. 

 

 

Learn More
Download our digital flyer and learn more about FREE filing assistance with expert tax preparers. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of the most common documentation required for a successful tax appointment:

  • Valid photo ID
  • Social Security Card or ITIN (for self and your dependents)
  • Income Documents (including W2 or 1099s)
  • Bank account information for direct deposit
  • School tuition or student loan interest statements
  • Dates and proof of health coverage (for self and your dependents)

* additional documentation may be required due to different income types, assets, donations, expenses, etc…

Tax credits are not considered income and will not affect any of the other public benefits you are receiving.

ITIN filers are eligible to receive the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) and the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) if they meet the other eligibility requirements.

FREE tax preparation appointments in-person or virtual are available through the VITA program for individuals with household incomes up to $64,000, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers.

If you participate in DACA and applied for a Social Security Number that allows you to work, you can use that number or an ITIN (Individual Tax Identification Number) when claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit.

A refundable tax credit: if a taxpayer’s tax bill is less than the amount of a refundable credit, they can get the difference back in their refund. Some taxpayers who aren’t required to file may still want to do so to claim refundable tax credits. A nonrefundable tax credit: Once a taxpayer’s liability is zero, the taxpayer won’t get any leftover amount back as a refund.

There are a wide range of tax credits, and the amount and types available can vary by tax year. Taxpayers should carefully review current tax credits when preparing their federal tax return. For more information visit the IRS website.