Many Philadelphians now get their tax dollars back with the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a federal tax credit. Philly residents are also taking advantage of free tax prep sites, which help get that refund. However, some folks are still choosing to go to tax prep offices that promise fast refunds.
Getting money sooner sounds nice, but a fast refund is really just a loan—and a loan that can be costly. It often comes with a high fee and interest.
Before the end of January, the City will open 20 tax prep centers across Philadelphia. Here, IRS-certified preparers will complete your tax return for FREE, if you qualify for EITC. The best part is you get 100% of your refund.
Tax preparers can also help file or amend your 2015, 2016 and 2017 returns. That means you could cash in on EITC funds for past years too! The average EITC refund in Philadelphia is $2,500 for each year.
If you’re eligible for EITC, it’s smart to wait for the City’s free tax prep sites. The first sites will open on January 21:
- North Central Financial Center
1415 N Broad Street, Suite 222
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. - Northeast Super Site
2113 Cottman Avenue – Unit 32,
Philadelphia, PA 19152
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. - Ebenezer Temple
5649 Christian Street
Philadelphia, PA 19143
Monday 12 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. - Mount Pisgah A.M.E. Church
428 N 41st Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Monday 2:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. - Temple ECE Center
1509 Cecil B. Moore Ave
2nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19121
Monday 12:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Text “FILE” to 99000 or visit www.YouEarnedItPhilly.com to receive information about EITC and find the tax-prep sites nearest you.
Whether your EITC refund is a few hundred dollars, or thousands, you’ve earned it–and you should get to keep it ALL. Don’t let it go in the pockets of companies that charge fees and interest on your refund.
