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Spearheaded by the Office of Mayor Thomas Menino,
the Boston Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition is a
partnership of nonprofits, businesses, and community
organizations that promote the economic independence of
working individuals and families.
The Coalition's campaign to advocate for low and moderate
income workers began in 2001, when free tax preparation
services were provided to a few hundred residents. Now serving
over 12,000 taxpayers each year, Coalition
sites and volunteers have returned more than
$100 million in federal refunds to Boston
families. The Coalition operates 22 free tax
sites throughout Boston neighborhoods, some of which also
provide additional financial services such as credit advising,
FAFSA coaching, and benefits enrollment.
The Coalition's namesake, the Earned Income Tax Credit, was
created in 1975 to supplement low wages and spur the
development of personal assets. It currently lifts more
children out of poverty than any other social program. Our
services enable taxpayers to utilize the credit available to
them, as well as avoid commercial fees and the high interest
rates associated with Refund Anticipation Loans.
With the support of our partners, sponsors, and volunteers,
the Coalition is continually increasing its capacity to offer
financial services to taxpayers during tax season as well as
to advocate for the long-term financial health
of all Boston residents.
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