It's a significant amount of money that many fail to claim.
MARQUETTE -- U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak is reminding people to check whether they are eligible to receive the earned income tax credit, or EITC, on their returns this year. It's a significant amount of money that many fail to claim.
The EITC is a refundable tax credit meaning individuals can receive money back even if they owe no federal income tax or had no tax withheld.
It's available to working people who earn incomes less than $43,279. Households with qualifying children receive a larger credit.
"The good thing about this earned income credit is the IRS will calculate if for you. I guess that's why it surprises me that so many people don't claim it because the IRS does have a program. You simply write in EIC on that line on the return, and the IRS will calculate it for you and send you your money," said Lloyd Houle, CPA, Houle and Associates.
People who may qualify for the EITC should visit the IRS.gov Web site.