With Tax Day approaching on April 15, many working families in York County may be missing out on one of the most valuable tax credits available to them.
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable tax credit designed to support hardworking individuals and families. Depending on income and family size, eligible households can receive thousands of dollars back in their tax refund. Yet every year, many people who qualify either do not claim the credit or are unaware they are eligible.
This matters locally. In York County, 38% of households struggle to make ends meet. Among these are ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households, families earning above the federal poverty level but not enough to cover the basic cost of living. Additionally, 70% of single-female-headed households with children do not earn enough to meet basic needs, and 50% of children grow up in households that struggle to pay their bills.
For many of these families, a tax refund is the largest financial boost they receive all year.
Free Tax Filing Through MyFreeTaxes and VITA
United Way of York County helps connect residents to MyFreeTaxes, a free online tax filing platform that allows eligible taxpayers to file their federal and state taxes at no cost. This resource helps individuals and families avoid filing fees while ensuring they claim the credits they may be eligible for.
United Way also helps connect residents to free in-person tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. While not operated by United Way, this program provides IRS-certified volunteers who assist with filing taxes and ensuring individuals receive the credits they qualify for.
Filing taxes for free is an important first step, but United Way also focuses on helping families make the most of their refund once they receive it.
Turning Tax Refunds Into Financial Progress
Through United Way of York County’s Financial Stability Network, certified financial social workers provide one-on-one financial coaching to help individuals and families build a path toward greater financial stability.
These financial social workers can connect community members to resources like MyFreeTaxes and help them develop personalized plans for their tax refunds. Many participants use their refunds to reach important financial goals such as:
- Purchasing reliable transportation
- Paying down debt
- Catching up on bills
- Building emergency savings
- Creating a spending and savings plan
This type of support helps families move beyond short-term relief and toward long-term financial stability.
Don’t Wait Until the Deadline
With the April 15 deadline approaching, now is the time for York County residents to explore free filing options and check whether they qualify for valuable tax credits.
For many working families, these refunds can provide meaningful support and a chance to make progress toward financial goals. United Way of York County is working to ensure residents not only receive the refunds they qualify for, but also have the guidance to use them in ways that strengthen their financial stability.
To learn more about free tax filing resources and financial coaching available in York County, contact United Way of York County or visit https://www.unitedwayofyc.org/ for more information.
