Blunt Rochester Highlights the Importance of the Earned Income Tax Credit, Encourages Delawareans to Check Eligibility, on EITC Awareness Day

Press Release

Today, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D.-Del.) delivered the Keynote Address for Delaware Tax and Financial Services Campaign program for National EITC Awareness Day. The event was hosted by the Delaware EITC Campaign of Nehemiah Gateway Community Development Corporation in partnership with First State Community Action Agency. Attendees learned about the impact of the Earned Income Tax Credit and Delaware families who are eligible. The event was designed to bolster and raise awareness of the EITC program.

"We know that for every family that is trying to make ends meet during this incredibly challenging time, every dollar makes a difference. And we know that the EITC is truly transformative - we've heard it in the stories today. In 2018, the EITC itself helped lift over 5 million people out of poverty including over 3 million children. We know that the challenges we face in the wake of COVID-19 are even greater and, that for many, COVID has not only impacted your lives but your livelihoods as well. So, another important message I wanted to share today is that if you lost your job due to COVID and are worried that you no longer qualify for the EITC, you may still qualify."

In the latest COVID-19 relief package, Congress included a provision allowing tax filers to refer to their previous tax year's income for the purposes of claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit.

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