About EITC
Earned Income Tax Credits
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) sometimes called the Earned Income Credit (EIC), is a refundable federal income tax credit for low to moderate income working individuals and families. Congress originally approved the tax credit legislation in 1975 in part to offset the burden of social security taxes and to provide an incentive to work. When the EITC exceeds the amount of taxes owed, it results in a tax refund to those who claim and qualify for the credit.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is a program implemented through the statewide Earn It. Keep It. Save It. Campaign by local community coalitions that provides free tax preparation services to low to moderate income households. In 2008, more than 15,500 free returns were completed by over 650 volunteers helping Utahns claim more than $5.3 million in EITC and other tax credits. Additionally $1.6 million estimated tax preparation fees were saved.
