Tax Credits and Free Filing Resources

Free Tax Filing Resources 

You may qualify for free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) tax preparation services if you:

• Make less than $67,000-$70,000 per year
• Are a U.S. citizens or resident alien who has a valid Social Security Number
• Are retired or self employed

In San Diego County, free tax services are provided by San Diego County Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition, with over 48 local partners. Here are a few of them:

• Dreams For Change
• United Way: MyFreeTaxes
• YMCA

211 San Diego outlines what documents to collect to file your taxes and claim the tax credits listed later in this section.

Family Tax Credits and Refunds

If you work and earn a low‑to‑moderate income, you may be eligible for tax credits on your IRS and California tax returns. Together, these credits can significantly lower your federal and state tax liability and increase your refund, providing extra funds to cover essential expenses like tuition, fees, housing, textbooks, and child/dependent care while you pursue your degree. Note: tax filers with an ITIN may now qualify CalEITC and the Young Child Tax Credit – YCTC

Earned Income Tax Credits

• California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) and calculator to find out how much you may receive. Text CalEITC to 51555 for updates about this tax credit from CalEITC4Me. 
• Federal Earned Income Tax Credit

Child and Dependent Tax Credits

To qualify for child and dependent care tax credits, be sure to include your children’s and/or dependents’ information in your state and federal tax filing. 

• Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) for those with children 17 and younger
• California Young Child Tax Credit for those with children under 6 years old
• Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)

Other Tax Credits

• The Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) allows you to reduce your taxable income by up to $2,000 for qualifying education expenses.
• The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) provides up to $1,000 as a refundable cash credit when you file your taxes.
• The Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) offers up to $1,154 as a refundable tax credit during tax season for current and former foster youth. To qualify, you must have been in foster care at the age of 13 and currently be between the ages of 18 and 25.