ELKINS — Tygart Valley United Way once again joined the Internal Revenue Service and partners nationwide in proclaiming January 23, 2026 as Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Awareness Day.   

Since its inception in 1975, the EITC has been one of the most effective anti-poverty tools in the United States. However, the IRS estimates that one in five eligible taxpayers still fail to claim this credit every year, leaving billions of tax refund dollars untouched. 

“On average, eligible filers received around $1,400 in EITC last year,” said Casey Gilbert, Community Impact Director. “In total, this credit alone was responsible for returning over $200,000 to taxpayers served by our VITA program.”

Low-to-moderate-income households can receive free tax preparation services through Tygart Valley United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. All eligible taxpayers are required to complete a federal income tax return in order to claim the EITC, even those not required to file otherwise.

IRS-certified volunteers in the VITA program look forward to educating the community on the EITC and other valuable credits, including the Child Tax Credit, Additional Child Tax Credit, and the American Opportunity Tax Credit. With federal tax law changes in effect from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, TVUW aims to take the stress out of tax season and ensure filers receive their full refunds.

To schedule an appointment with Tygart Valley United Way’s VITA Program for free tax preparation, call 304-366-4550. Appointments are available in Randolph, Barbour, Tucker, Marion and Taylor counties through April 15.

For more information, visit tvuw.us/taxes.