PHOENIX (Feb. 24. 2010) — Catholic Charities Community Services is providing free tax preparation for low-moderate income families and individuals at its Phoenix office and in Yavapai County. The agency's goal is to help those in need receive their maximum return, including the federal earned income tax credit.

Families with children and a household incomes under $43,000, and individuals with incomes under $13,000, may qualify for the earned income tax credit, as well as other tax credits and deductions.

"We want to help those who need it the most receive every cent they deserve and there is no reason that they should have to pay someone to complete their taxes for them," said Carrie Mascaro, site director for Catholic Charities who oversees the program in Phoenix. "With $5,657 as the maximum earned income tax credit, it is vitally important that those who think they may qualify call us."

Joya Schmidt, now a Catholic Charities employee, volunteered as a tax preparer last year because she understands firsthand what a difference the earned income tax credit can make to those in need.

Just a few years ago, Schmidt, a single mother of two, was homeless. The first year she received her earned income tax credit, she purchased a car and began establishing credit. The next year, Schmidt used her earned income tax credit to pay it off. The following two years, Schmidt saved her tax credits for a down payment on a house.

"In five years, I went from being homeless to being a homeowner," said Schmidt. "That's why I know how important it is for those in need to receive their earned income tax credits and not have to pay hundreds of dollars to have their taxes done. The credit is a real tool to help people achieve financial stability."

The effort is part of Project HOPE, a Catholic Charities program to help those in need escape poverty and improve their financial situations permanently.

Catholic Charities Community Services is an IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provider and is providing free tax preparation through April 13.

Free appointments are available every Tuesday, 4-7 p.m., through April 13 at Catholic Charities, 1825 W. Northern Avenue in Phoenix. For more information and to schedule a free appointment, call 602.997-6105 ext. 51004 or e-mail jpritts@cc-az.org.