LSS of Northern California Provides Free Tax Help to Foster Youth

Free tax preparation assistance is now available to current and former foster youth in Concord and surrounding communities. LSS of Northern California (LSS), a major service provider for this population and other individuals and families experiencing or at-risk of homelessness in Northern California is partnering with the California Franchise Tax Board and other organizations to provide this incredible service via the VITA program. VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) is a government-sponsored program that offers free tax help to people who make $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities, seniors, those with limited English and current and former foster youth.

“We are working specifically with current and former foster youth who have earned income but never filed taxes previously and those who have but are missing out on the California foster youth tax credit, in which they can receive up to $1,083 in cash back,” explains Carol Roberts, CEO.

LSS has long provided housing, supportive services, job preparedness and employment to youth exiting the foster care system throughout Northern California. Currently, the organization has programs for former foster youth in Contra Costa, Sacramento, San Joaquin and Shasta counties. LSS is partnering with the Franchise Tax Board, United Ways of California and John Burton Advocates for Youth to administer this program

“It makes sense that we partner in this program for that vulnerable population,” adds Deputy Director Kate Hutchinson who oversees LSS programs in Sacramento, Concord and other areas throughout the region.

LSS is the first organization to provide this opportunity to the foster youth population in Concord.

To qualify for the program, youth must have been age 18 through 25 at the end of the tax year; in California foster care age 13 or older; and must be eligible for the California Earned Income Tax Credit.

LSS is providing assistance in two locations, one in Sacramento and one in Concord, although qualified youth from throughout Northern California may participate via a virtual option. All assistance is by appointment only. To determine if one qualifies and schedule an appointment, go to: https://apricot.socialsolutions.com/document/edit/id/new/form_id/267. This link may also be used to refer youth. We welcome the many organizations who provide these services to refer qualified youth.

This program will run throughout tax season, from February 1 until Tax Day.

“We encourage organizations and individuals throughout the region who serve current and former foster youth to take advantage of this opportunity by connecting the youth to the VITA program,” concludes Roberts. “Everyone deserves to receive their full tax credits!”