Tax Prep Chicago are marking Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day and the official start of tax season by reminding residents to take advantage of the City of Chicago’s free tax assistance program.  The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a benefit for working families with low to moderate income. Last year, Tax Prep Chicago helped over 20,000 families and individuals receive nearly $30 million in tax refunds and credits. The City will be partnering with the Center for Economic Progress, Ladder Up and City Treasurer’s Office again this year to provide the free service for eligible residents.  Volunteers will help taxpayers filing for or renewing an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). For more information, contact the Cook County Treasurer’s Office at www.cookcountytreasurer.com/exemptions.aspx The deadline for filing taxes is April 17, 2018. For more information about how to access free tax assistance or for a complete list of EITC locations: