County Executive Elrich Encourages Residents to ‘Get All Your Tax Credits’

For Immediate Release: Friday, January 28, 2022

In recognition of Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day, January 28, County Executive Marc Elrich encourages residents to “Get All Your Tax Credits.” Residents with household incomes of $58,000 or less may be eligible for the federal, State and County Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) and free tax assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

“In a historic move, Maryland legislators increased the State’s EITC and, for the first time, made it available to taxpayers filing with an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), who previously were ineligible,” said County Executive Elrich. “In this time when many workers struggle to pay for food and housing, and may be earning less because of wages lost due to COVID-19, I am proud that our County responded by also making the Working Families Income Supplement (WFIS) available to those who file taxes using an ITIN. These changes will mean that an additional 10,000 individuals and families will be eligible to receive these tax credits.”

This year presents a special opportunity for eligible taxpayers with dependents, and without, to increase their refunds due to increases of federal, State, and local tax credits. Montgomery County is among a few jurisdictions across the country – and the only in Maryland – with a local match to the State’s earned income credit, called the WFIS. All filers who are eligible for the state EITC or federal EITC are also eligible for the WFIS, which is a 100-percent match of the Maryland EITC. For the first time, those who use an ITIN to file their taxes will also receive the Maryland EITC and the WFIS, doubling their refund. For example, a Montgomery County family with one child could receive $3,618 for the federal EITC, $1,628 for the Maryland EITC, and $1,628 for the WFIS – totaling $6,874 in earned income tax credits.

Research indicates that the EITC and the Child Tax Credit are among the best tools available to lift people out of poverty. Studies of the EITC have linked it to numerous other benefits such as increased birthweights, improved maternal health, and decreases in children entering foster care. The EITC can also reduce health disparities and improve educational outcomes for children.

The CASHBACK website provides up-to-date information about Earned Income Tax Credits and free tax assistance in the county. The Community Action Agency (CAA) hosts the County’s only year-round VITA program and oversees the County’s VITA partnership. This tax season, the CAA VITA program is offering free virtual appointments to County residents with household incomes of $58,000 or less. Residents can schedule online at the CASHBACK website or call 240-777-1123.

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FREE Shred Day

Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.

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Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!

For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

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Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

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2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

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