Navigating the complex tax system can be overwhelming and stressful, making it easy to overlook hundreds or even thousands of dollars in potential credits and deductions. But right now, free assistance is available throughout Central New York to help guide hardworking families through tax season and ensure they get every penny they deserve. Tax breaks like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can provide financial relief to working families and help cover the rising cost of living here. But unfortunately, 1 of every 5 taxpayers eligible for the EITC fails to apply, mainly because they aren’t aware the credit exists or how beneficial it can be.¹ This year, eligible families could receive up to $6,242 from the EITC – enough to help pay the bills or start a savings fund for the future. Other tax credits you may qualify for include:

• the Empire State Child Credit, worth up to $330 per child aged 4-16;
• the federal Child Tax Credit, worth up to $1,000 per child under the age of 17;
• the Child and Dependent Care Credit, an income-based credit for working parents who pay for child care or the care of a dependent;
• the College Tuition Credit or College Tuition Itemized Deduction; or
• the Real Property Tax Credit, a refundable credit worth up to $375 for eligible homeowners and renters.

• Northern Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) at Brewerton
  5440 Bennett St.
  Wednesdays through April 13
• NOPL at Cicero
  8686 Knowledge Lane
  Fridays through April 8

• NOPL at North Syracuse
  100 N. Trolley Barn Lane
  315-458-6184
• Minoa Free Library
  242 N. Main St.
  315-656-7401
• Fayetteville Free Library
  300 Orchard St.
  315-637-6374
• Manlius Library
  1 Arkie Albanese Ave.
  315-682-6400