Hardworking local families can get a leg up on tax season by planning now to take advantage of free in-person tax prep at one of 34 convenient sites located throughout Southwestern Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Southeastern Indiana.

In addition to free preparation and e-filing, they’ll get help determining eligibility for and claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

The Internal Revenue Service estimates that only four of five eligible taxpayers claim and get their EITC. That’s as much as $5,751 into the pockets of a family with three or more children. It is the largest federal program benefiting low-earning workers. Last year, the local effort prepared more than 16,553 returns, resulting in more than $19 million coming back to our community and providing a financial boost for working people in a recovering economy.

If you worked in 2011 and earned between $49,078 (married filing jointly with three or more children) and $13,660 (single with no children) you may be eligible.

2012 sites open starting as early as Jan. 17. A full list of sites, hours, eligibility information and what to bring to have a return prepared can be found at www.makeworkpay.com or by calling 2-1-1.

United Way teams up with regional sponsors including AARP, Hamilton County, the IRS, Ohio Benefit Bank, and others to develop and staff sites, train volunteer preparers, and promote the effort. A full list of partners is available at www.makeworkpay.com.