With the state and federal tax deadline set for Monday, the United Way of Fresno and Madera Counties is giving a lift to low-income families.

The United Way invites low-income families to drop off their tax documents on Friday or Saturday at its office, 4949 E. Kings Canyon R., in Fresno. 

Volunteers will review the families’ tax documents, make photocopies, and forward them to trained volunteer tax preparers.

Friday’s event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday’s schedule is 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The United Way’s goal is to help families obtain tax credits they don’t know about. The nonprofit says there are more than 1 million California families who are eligible for the credits but haven’t applied.

Depending on a family’s income, they could receive up to $4,200.

Two State Tax Credits Available

“These tax credits provide critical support to families in the region hit hard by the pandemic so they can afford groceries, pay rent, and cover their daily expenses,” said Ashley Ruiz, senior program manager at United Way Fresno and Madera Counties. “They worked hard for this money, and all they need to do is file their taxes so they can quickly put that money in their pocket and support their families.”

This year, there are two avenues to receiving tax credits from the state.

The Golden State Stimulus is a one-time payment of $600 or $1,200 available to families earning up to $75,000. And, the California Earned Income Tax Credit ranges from $243 to just over $3,000. It’s available to families with incomes up to $30,000.

Deadline Extended Because of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic moved the original filing deadline for 2020 taxes from April 15 to Monday.

Taxpayers must file by Monday — even if they are seeking an extension.

“Every person in this country is obligated to abide by our tax laws,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert. “It hurts everyone who follows the rules when people submit fraudulent returns and claim taxpayer money to which they aren’t entitled. It is vital that everyone meets their responsibilities to pay taxes and that they have confidence in the government agencies that enforce those rules.”