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For 25 years, the Center for Economic Progress (CEP) has helped hard-working, low-income families achieve financial stability. We offer a full-range of tax and financial services to help families acquire the knowledge, skills, tools and confidence to make sound financial choices.

From January through April, CEP has free tax sites in communities throughout Illinois. Each year, thanks to our 900+ IRS-certified volunteers, we help nearly 20,000 Illinois families file their taxes and get all the tax credits they’ve earned and refunds they’re owed.  Our free tax sites are more than a place to get your taxes done.  At most sites, you’ll be able to open a bank account, learn ways to save for the future, and better manage your money. Filing taxes can be stressful, but many of our clients use our services as inspiration to achieve their goals.

Are you looking to become a client of CEP? You’re in luck! Check out the lists below for more information on client requirements, as well as tax tips that can use year-round!

We provide free tax help to:
-Families with incomes less than $50,000
-Individuals with incomes less than $25,000

What should you bring with you to receive free tax services?
-All W-2s and 1099s (if any) for the year involved
-Social Security cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) for all family members
-Valid photo ID for the person filing
-Copy of previous year’s tax return, if possible
-Bank account number and routing number if you choose to direct deposit your tax refund
-Property tax bill, if you own your home
-Amount spent on college expenses
-Proof of health insurance

Year-Round Tax Tips:
Remember that planning for taxes isn’t just something you should do each spring. Make it part of your mindset to think year-round about reducing taxes and then making the most of your refund when you receive it.

-Make the most of the Federal W-4 form. Adjust your allowances to help you meet your financial goals.
-Keep good records. Having files organized makes it easier to find information (receipts, medical claim forms, etc.) when you need it. Keep tax records for at least three years.
-If you are self-employed, it’s especially important to keep good records since you may able to take a deduction for work-related expenses.
-Plan ahead for how you’ll spend any tax refund you receive.
-Most importantly, see if you can claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit or other homeowner tax credits that could increase your tax refund or lower your tax payment. Get all the tax credits you deserve.

Find a CEP tax site near you by visiting www.economicprogress.org/tax-site-finder and click here to “Like” CEP on Facebook! After the April filing deadline, CEP offers year-round tax help through our Money Action Days, held at our main office at 567 W. Lake St., Chicago, IL 60661. Download our flyer for dates and times (English, Spanish).