Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown) is highlighting the Internal Revenue Service’s annual Earned Income Tax Credit Day (EITC). The Earned Income Tax Credit is a refundable credit for individuals who work but do not earn high incomes. It helps eligible taxpayers lower their taxes or receive refunds. Assemblyman Fitzpatrick is pleased to lend his voice to this important tax-reduction-awareness campaign. “New York has the unenviable distinction of having some of the highest taxes in the country,” said Fitzpatrick. “This day is helping to build awareness of the EITC program and its availability for people to lower their taxes or receive refunds. EITC Awareness Day can help Long Islanders save money when filing taxes and even make them eligible for free tax-preparation websites which assist taxpayers in claiming it. The program works to reduce the tax burden on these workers, to supplement wages, and to provide a genuine incentive for working. I encourage constituents to learn more about the earned income tax credit on January 27.” To be eligible for the Federal and New York State EITC you must:

• Have worked full or part time at some point during the calendar year,
• Be a single or married person raising “qualified” children at home,
• Have income below *$36,052 (or $41,132 if married)—for families with one child,
• Have income below *$40,964 (or $46,044if married)—for families with two children,
• Have income below *$43,998 (or $49,078 if married)—for families with three or more children, or
• Be a worker between the ages of 25 and 65 and earn less than $13,660 (or $18,740 if married) for families with no children.