Contra Costa’s Earn It! Keep It! Save It! (EKS) Campaign provides free tax assistance to low-income workers and helps them to receive their full tax refunds and credits. EKS is a project of the Family Economic Security Partnership (FESP). FESP is a public, private, and non-profit collaborative dedicated to increasing the income and building the assets of low-income individuals and families living in Contra Costa County.

Here are some FAQs:

No. If your income last year was $52,000 or less, you may qualify for free tax preparation. U.S. Citizenship is NOT required.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable federal income tax credit for low-income working individuals and families. When the EITC exceeds the amount of taxes owed, it results in a tax refund to those who claim and qualify for the credit. The Child Tax Credit is a non-refundable credit and may be as much as $1,000 per qualifying child depending upon your income. The Additional Child Tax Credit is a refundable credit and may give you a refund even if you do not owe any tax.

All you have to do is apply when filing your tax return.

For more information on the #EKS program and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) locations in Contra Costa County, text your zip code to 898211 or call us at 211!