Expanding access to the Child Tax Credit in Philadelphia

As tax season arrives in Philadelphia, low-income households have a pivotal opportunity to claim essential tax credits like the Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Despite these programs' potential to significantly reduce poverty, an estimated 50,000 Philadelphians miss out on claiming the CTC each year, leaving nearly $100 million unclaimed. Barriers such as lack of awareness and financial constraints prevent many from accessing these crucial funds. In response, the Office of Community Empowerment and Opportunity has launched the ClaimYourMoneyPHL campaign, collaborating with local organizations to maximize outreach and assistance. Their efforts have successfully reached over 80,000 individuals, providing bilingual resources and free tax filing services.

Mayor Parker and City Council are actively advocating for the extension of the CTC, emphasizing its vital role in supporting the city's families. The initiatives not only aim to provide immediate financial relief but also foster long-term economic stability for vulnerable communities. The collective push underscores the necessity of these tax credits in combating persistent poverty in Philadelphia.