Around 400 trained volunteers have begun to prepare tax returns for individuals and families for free across the county.
The volunteers will work in 80 locations across the region through April 17, when filings are due this year.
People who earned less than $48,500 last year could receive a rebate of up to $5,600 through the earned income tax credit (EITC) and may not know it.
Authorities estimate that $77 million in the credit goes unclaimed in the county each year.
"That money could go to our businesses could stimulate our region's economy and create jobs," said Supervisor Greg Cox at event Friday to announce the volunteer program.
The federal government established the EITC in 1975 to help low-income individuals and families keep more of what they earned.
And since 2003 San Diego County joined forces with the Internal Revenue Service, United way and local colleges to train volunteers to help prepare tax returns.
To find the nearest location offering this free service, residents may call the county's information line of 211. Bilingual help is available.
The volunteers will also help individuals and families determine if they qualify for CalFresh, which offers funds to buy food. Nearly 244,000 people participate in this program countywide.
Last year, volunteers helped more than 43,000 people file their tax returns, which resulted in refunds totaling $25 million, of which $8.2 million were through the EITC.
"That money belongs in San Diego County's economy," said supervisor Pam Slater-Price. "It shouldn't go anywhere else."
For her part, Shaina Gross, the Community Impact Manager for United Way, she said the volunteer program began because many need help preparing their tax returns.
"People should contact us with any question they have," she said. "We know the forms can be intimidating. Let our volunteers help."
Alexandra.mendoza@sandiegored.com
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The IRS offers information about the Earned Income Tax Credit in English and Spanish.
People may dial the county information line of 211 to get the nearest location to get free assistance. Bilingual service is available.
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