Philadelphia Residents: Free Tax Preparation Assistance Available

The City of Philadelphia partners with five nonprofit organizations to offer free tax services to residents who meet certain income and other requirements. Qualifying taxpayers can file online or in person and receive help with tax credits like the CTC and EITC, potentially receiving up to $2,000 and $8,046, respectively. Eligibility is based on federal adjusted gross income.

The City of Philadelphia, in collaboration with five nonprofit organizations, is offering free tax services to residents who meet specific income and other requirements. This initiative, part of the Philadelphia Poverty Action Fund, aims to uplift 100,000 residents out of poverty within the next five years [1].

The Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) in the Department of Commerce plays a crucial role in this endeavor. OEO ensures that the City engages with diverse businesses to meet its needs, with a goal of reaching 35% participation from minority, women, and disabled-owned enterprises (M/W/DSBEs) on its contracts [1]. This year, the City has allocated $5.5 million from the Poverty Action Fund to support neighborhood organizations offering financial services during the tax season [2].

Qualifying taxpayers can file online or in person and receive assistance with tax credits like the Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The CTC can potentially yield up to $2,000, while the EITC might result in a maximum benefit of $8,046 [2]. Eligibility for these services is based on federal adjusted gross income.

The nonprofit organizations involved in this partnership include United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, which is spearheading the Philadelphia Poverty Action Fund [1]. These organizations are providing free tax preparation, access to benefits, and financial and legal counseling to residents in need [2].

In addition to these direct services, the OEO supports capacity-building efforts for M/W/DSBEs, helping them become prime City contractors and creating alliances within the City government and beyond [1]. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of these initiatives extend beyond the immediate tax season and contribute to long-term financial stability for residents.

References:
[1] City of Philadelphia. (n.d.). Office of Economic Opportunity. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://www.phila.gov/departments/office-of-economic-opportunity/
[2] United for Impact. (2021, March 17). City Council, United Way to Set Poverty Action Plan in Motion with Announcement of $10 Million in Funding for Partnerships with Key Neighborhood Service Providers, Other Initiatives. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://unitedforimpact.org/news/city-council-united-way-to-set-poverty-action-plan-in-motion-with-announcement-of-10-million-in-funding-for-partnerships-with-key-neighborhood-service-providers-other-initiatives/