Schauer Champions Tax Breaks for Struggling Workers

LANSING-Senator Mark Schauer (D-Battle Creek) joined with local officials and community leaders in the State Capitol this morning to recognize National Earned Income Tax Credit Day. The group highlighted the importance of the program to Michigan families and its effect on boosting local economies.

"These are exactly the type of targeted tax incentives that reward and encourage hard work and we should make sure everyone who qualifies takes advantage of them," said Schauer, who fought for the recently enacted state version of the EITC. "At a time when Washington is finally waking up to the plight of struggling workers and considering an economic stimulus package, we must make the most of this powerful economic tool."

Families earning less than $40,000 a year are eligible for the credit and can find tax preparation assistance by calling 211 from a landline phone. A maximum credit for a family of two or more children is $4,716.

It is estimated that 20 percent of those who qualify for the credit do not apply for it and as a result approximately $300 million in credits goes unclaimed in Michigan. These are funds that families could use to pump into the local economy to support development and job growth.

http://www.senate.mi.gov/dem/pr.php?id=816

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• Senator
• Mark
• Schauer
• Michigan
• Politics
• Democrat
• EITC
• United
• Way
• PC
• Battle
• Creek