The IRS is Going to Give ME Money?

Yes!! The Earned Income Tax Credit (EIC) is a special tax benefit only for people who work full or part-time. If you qualify, you'll owe less in taxes and you may get cash back. Even if you don't owe income tax you can get the EIC. But, you must file a tax return. Even workers who aren't raising children can get the EIC!

Get Earned Income Credit by Filing a Federal Tax Return!
If you were raising children in your home in 1999: File Form 1040 or 1040A, not Form 1040EZ. Be sure to attach Schedule EIC.

Boost your take-home pay!
You may be able to get part of next year's EIC in advance in your paycheck. Ask about Advance EIC. Get Form W-5 from your employer, or call 1-800-TAX-FORM.

If you were not raising children in your home in 1999: File Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ. You don't need to file EIC.

Avoid Refund Delays
Be sure to provide the correct name and Social Security number for each person listed on your tax return.

More Money For Workers in Kansas
In addition to the federal EIC, low-income workers in Kansas can receive extra money from a refundable state EIC. Kansas is one of only seven other states to offer a state EIC. So when you file for federal, be sure to file for state as well. Help boost your paycheck even more!

Questions and Answers About Earned Income Tax Credit

What if I don't know how to file a tax return?
Get free help! VITA, a program of the IRS, helps people fill out their tax returns for free. VITA sites are open from late January through April 15. Many VITA sites have electronic filing for faster returns. To find the VITA site near you, call 1-800-829-1040. Or, visit one of these local sites:

Aley/Stanley Center
1749 S. Martinson, Wichita
337-9082

Atwater Community Service Center
2755 E. 19th St., Wichita
688-9369

Colvin Community Center
2820 S. Roosevelt
688-9377

Finney State Office Building
230 E. William, Room 7150, Wichita
337-6146

The Salvation Army on Market
Elpyco & Dora, 263-2769 ext. 117
685-8699 or 944-2261

Wichita Family Services Institute
1631 E. 17th Street, Wichita
269-0488

What if I haven't filed a tax return in a long time?
You can still get the EIC. If you were eligible you can claim the EIC for three years back. Call the IRS to find out how. If you owe back taxes, the EIC may lower your tax bill. You may also be able to work out a payment agreement.

What if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
Many legal immigrants who are employed are eligible for the EIC, including green card holders, refugees and others legally authorized to work. Getting the credit will not hurt your immigration status.

I work and get public assistance benefits. If I get the EIC, will I lose my other benefits?
The EIC does not affect benefits like Food Stamps, SSI, Medicaid, or public housing. In most cases, the EIC does not affect cash assistance ("welfare") eligibility, but these rules are set by each state.

This message is brought to you as a service from the City of Wichita. For even more information call 1-800-829-1040.