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Detroit Local NewsDetroit helps local residents to obtain their due tax credits, potentially bringing...

Detroit helps local residents to obtain their due tax credits, potentially bringing millions of dollars into their homes

Detroit, Michigan – Working with a coalition of community partners, the City of Detroit has started a major push this year to guarantee Detroiters obtain their due tax credits, potentially bringing millions of dollars into their homes. Under the direction of Mayor Mike Duggan and groups including United Way for Southeastern Michigan, Accounting Aid Society, and Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency, this effort seeks to increase understanding of and access to vital tax credits including the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

Mayor Duggan underlined in the announcement of the campaign the value of these credits for Detroit’s working people.

“Wealthy people tend to be the ones who get most of the tax breaks.  But the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Care Tax Credit are the tax breaks for thousands of working Detroiters.” said Mayor Duggan. “By simply claiming these credits on their tax returns, they could be get thousands of their own dollars back from the federal government.  I encourage everyone who may be eligible to come in for free tax assistance.”

City of Detroit has started a major push this year to guarantee Detroiters obtain their due tax credits and bring home millions of dollars
Credit: Unsplash

The focus on tax credits comes after a successful previous year, where Detroiters claimed over $450 million in EITC refunds for the 2023 tax year, a significant increase partly due to new state legislation that multiplied the Michigan EITC by five times. Building on this trend, the city and its allies are guaranteeing even greater funds availability and claimed this year.

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The campaign’s approach makes the tax filing procedure available to all income levels, even those of people who might not usually submit tax returns. Wayne Metro and the Accounting Aid Society are offering virtual tax preparation services as well as in-person, drop-and-go tax preparation tools to make sure every qualified Detroiter can effectively negotiate the tax filing process. These programs help low- to moderate-income people and families optimize their refunds since they are particularly aimed at them.

The outreach goes beyond only tax preparation as well. The group is also concentrating on getting those who might not be aware of their eligibility—first-time parents or non-traditional families, for example. Direct neighborhood involvement, distribution of educational leaflets, and in-person outreach at events constitute part of community-based initiatives.

“Our goal is to help families get the most out of their tax returns and put that money back into the household budget,” said Louis D. Piszker, Wayne Metro Chief Executive Officer. “It’s so important to work with a certified preparer to maximize tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, home heating credit, and dependent care. During tax appointments we can also address property taxes, water, and energy assistance, along with financial counseling, debt reduction, and credit repair.”

Apart from tax help, the campaign covers other financial issues including property taxes, utilities, financial counseling, debt reduction, credit restoration during the tax appointment sessions.

“For 50 years, the Earned Income Tax Credit has provided a much-needed financial boost to help families pay for basic essentials and get caught up on overdue bills.  Thanks to the 2023 expansion of the Michigan EITC, even more money is available this year.  The EITC, Child Tax Credit, and other tax credits provide financial stability and a foundation for economic mobility, often helping to fund a car purchase or emergency savings,” said Avec O’Brien, Chief Financial Officer at United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “Along with our partners at the city, Accounting Aid Society, Wayne Metro, and others, we are working to help everyone access the maximum refund they are owed.”

Detroit residents can learn more about the campaign and schedule a free tax help appointment by calling 2-1-1 or visiting the website at GetTheTaxFacts.org.

More details are available here.