With debt, foreclosures and unemployment in the Chicagoland area, low-income families are falling behind financially—and fast. To help bring some relief during the upcoming tax season, the Center for Economic Progress (CEP) is looking for volunteers to help bring free tax and financial services to families who need them most. With little tax training, low-income families are among the most likely to leave money on the table at tax time. They’re also those who can least afford to do so. Many are simply unaware of credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC), which can be equal to more than two months pay for a low-income family. Volunteers can be tax preparers, tax site assistants, or savings coaches; no prior experience is necessary.

From January to April 2016, CEP is running a free tax preparation site at the [insert Tax Site here]. Volunteers are supported at all times by experienced tax preparers and accountants. Certified Public Accountants who volunteer can also receive free Continuing Professional Education Credits. The Center for Economic Progress is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping hard-working, low-income families move from financial uncertainty to financial security. CEP provides free tax preparation from January 23, 2016 thru April 18, 2016 at 15 Illinois locations. For more information or to register to volunteer, visit www.economicprogress.org/volunteer or call (312) 630-0288.