United Way helps residents get biggest tax refund

The United Way is working to make sure you get the biggest tax refund possible, WFTV learned on Tuesday.

The group is getting the word out about the earned income tax credit.

People can call 211 to find out how to maximize their tax refund.

Last year, hundreds of millions of dollars flooded into Central Floridian's pockets from the IRS.

However, when tax season rolls around, many Central Floridians make a mistake that can cost thousands of dollars in refund money.

It's called the Earned Income Tax Credit and it's worth nearly $6,000 to some families.

"But a lot of people don't know about it, so they can't claim it. The IRS estimates almost 25 percent of people don't know about it, so all that money goes unclaimed," said Mark Batchelor of Heart of Florida United Way.

Last year alone, the Heart of Florida United Way said it helped local taxpayers bring home a half-billion dollars by simply making sure they were informed about the special tax credit.

A couple without children, who make just under $19,000 in income, qualifies to receive about $500.

Couples with three or more children, who make nearly $50,000, can almost $6,000 in return.

Also, the organization said it could cost you nothing this year to have your taxes prepared.

"It can be very expensive to hire someone to prepare your taxes, that's why we're offering over 40 free sites where people can go and get their taxes done free, so they don't have to pay someone and they get their refund in 10 days," said Batchelor.

The 211 hotline is not just for tax season. Callers can get assistance with utilities, finding housing, etc.