Family First Tax Correction

In the December 1 issue of the Whitman County Gazette an article was written about the Family First Tax with incorrect information. The following article has corrections regarding deadlines for the tax, and requirements for applicants.

Colfax — In their Monday, Nov. 28 County Commissioner meeting Department of Revenue representative, Aminta Spencer gave a presentation on the Family First Tax.

The Families Tax Credit is a tax refund starting in 2023 that will help Washington workers, and their families get more money back at tax time. The refund is modeled after the federal Earned Income Tax Credit Program.

Working Families Tax Credit purpose is to stimulate the local economy, promote racial equity, and support the financial stability and well-being of low-to-moderate income Washington residents and their families, Spencer noted that it was enacted by EHB 1297.

“Payments are based on income level,” Spencer said, “And applicants must have filed a federal income tax return as a joint filer.”

Applications for the Families Tax Credit will be open February 1, 2023, for the 2022 tax year, and are accepted through Dec. 31, corrected communications manager of the Washington State Department of Revenue, Mikhail Carpenter.

Spencer explained that to get the refund applicants must have a valid social security number or individual taxpayer identification number. Carpenter further explained that applicants must have lived in Washington a minimum of 183 days in 2022, over half the year. Applicants must also be at least 25 and under 65 years of age or have a qualifying child in 2022, as well as filed a 2022 federal tax return.

Spencer explained that paper applications will be available at the website workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov, and at the local DOR field office.

Also on the website applicants can find an eligibility checker, partner toolkit and training materials, sign up for updates and notifications, and request a speaker.

Spencer also noted that DOR has been working on their outreach and communications, marketing and media campaign.