Chicago Tax Assistance Center

The Chicago Tax Assistance Center provides Chicago residents with the following: advice on the Chicago Home Assistance Program (CHAP), Real Property Transfer Tax Refund for Seniors and applying for the Earned Income Tax Credit. 

Earned Income Tax Credit

Twelve years ago, the City of Chicago launched its first Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) awareness campaign.  The EITC, as you may know, helps working families throughout the City of Chicago as they raise their children and seek opportunities for the future. And just recently, Governor Pat Quinn and the Illinois Legislature passed important legislation that increases the relief Illinois families are eligible to receive. 

Thanks to the efforts of many, our annual campaign has been a great success.  In 2011, the City of Chicago’s free income tax preparation sites helped return more than $34 million to more than 20,000 families. Yet despite all of these positive efforts, there is more work to do.  Roughly 25 percent of those who may qualify do not claim the tax credit every year, losing out on an opportunity to obtain a refund of up to $5,700 annually and gain greater financial understanding.  For in addition to our EITC awareness campaign, we inform families about the Child Tax Credit, assist students with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and help immigrants attain Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers necessary to file income taxes.

Below are some important ways that you can find out more information on this fabulous program.

• Free Income Tax Preparation Sites
• Dial 311
• Center for Economic Progress’ website or call (312) 630-0288
• Ladder Up’s website or call (312) 466-0771

Alerts (Chicago Tax Assistance Center)

Jan 19, 2012

2012 Earned Income Tax Credit Program Starts Today

Services

• Get Information Regarding Special Service Area (SSA) #46
• Help with Appealing Property Tax Assessments
• Real Property Transfer Tax Refunds for Seniors