Free tax preparation for Earned Income Tax Credit

Many low-to-moderate income working families and individuals in the county qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). An EITC credit can amount to an income tax refund of up to $4,716. Free tax preparation is available for those who qualify for the EITC.

"Virginians could see more than $1 billion per year in federal EITC money if everyone who qualified took advantage of the credit," said Peggy Friedenberg, EITC program manager with the Virginia Department of Social Services.

According to Chris Ramsey of the Chesterfield/Colonial Heights Department of Social Services (DSS) and a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site coordinator, the tax credit benefits the area in many ways. "The EITC has a positive impact on local families and the local economy," Ramsey said.

The Chesterfield/Colonial Heights DSS office at 9501 Lucy Corr Circle in Chesterfield is the free tax prep site in this area and prepares returns from 4-7 p.m. each Thursday through Apr. 10. Appointments are not necessary.