Through coalition grants working with Community Action Commission, Cal Poly University, Family Service Agency -211 and Allan Hancock College, IRS certified and trained volunteers are able to assist low income individuals by preparing taxes at no charge. Generating revenue for individuals and the local economy through filing tax returns is another example of how United Way is working to advance the common good.

In conjunction with providing volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) sites, United Way partners in the Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness campaign to better serve low-wage workers and create lasting change in the community.

The EITC is the largest anti-poverty program in the country, and it lifts millions of people above the poverty line each year. While EITC is not welfare, it does reduce taxes, supplement wages, and provide individuals with an incentive to work.

The EITC is a refundable credit for low income taxpayers who work. The amount of the credit depends on income and family size. Whatever its amount, the EITC is money that is often used to pay down debt or for other necessities. It can also provide an opportunity to begin asset building activities, such as opening or contributing to a savings account.