$2.2 million

delivered to our clients since 2003

The Internal Revenue Service estimates that 15-25 percent of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), goes unclaimed by low-income workers every year. This is equivalent to millions of dollars that America’s lowest wage earners are forgoing. Unfortunately, many of the eligible low-income families in our communities do not know that the tax credit exists or are using paid tax preparers to claim the credit. About 67 percent of EITC recipients use paid preparers, which decreases the amount of net credit that they receive.

EBALDC's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is committed to increasing the number of low-income families and individuals who claim EITC and receive their income tax refunds. Through our culturally and linguistically competent staff and volunteers, we have made significant strides.

Since 2003, EBALDC has been a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) provider as part of the United Way of the Bay Area's Earn It! Keep It! Save It! Campaign. EBALDC operates one of only a few VITA sites in Oakland Chinatown where low to moderate income households are offered free income tax preparation services, asset development materials, and pre-screening for public benefits. Families and individuals are also assisted in claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), and in accessing financial services and training. EBALDC also provides VITA services at Lion Creek Crossings, in East Oakland.

To volunteer for one of the most effective anti-poverty campaigns in the country,
call Max Moy-Borgen, the Volunteer Coordinator, at (510)287-5353 ext. 329.