NAHMA Update: Resources to Encourage Residents to File for the EITC/CTC; Affordable Connectivity Program and Discounted Broadband Resources

February 15, 2022

Dear NAHMA Members,

Please find below to recent announcements regarding:

  1. Encouraging residents at HUD-assisted properties to file their taxes for the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit;
  2. 10 ways to connect your residents and community with discounted broadband services through the American Connectivity Program (factsheet also attached).

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News from HUD’s Office of Multifamily Housing Deputy Assistant Secretary

Encourage Residents at HUD-Assisted Properties to File Their Taxes for the Child & Earned Income Tax Credits

Multifamily owners/agents:
Please share the following information with your residents.

As part of President Biden’s American Rescue Plan to help families through the pandemic, parents and guardians are eligible for up to $3,000 or $3,600 per child depending on the child’s age through the Child Tax Credit and many adults are eligible for additional money through the Earned Income Tax Credit. Eligibility for the EITC has been expanded from those who are 25-64 years old to now include those who are ages 64 and up.

The Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit are large tax refund payments that people can receive when they file a tax return. The 2021 American Rescue Plan expanded who can receive these payments and increased the amount of money available to many families and individuals. These tax credits are not income. Receiving these benefits will not impact eligibility for other federal benefits.

The best way to receive these benefits is to file a tax return before April 18, 2022. Here is a flyer with more information (English and Spanish) and some places to go to get free help filing your taxes.

Here’s how you can determine if you are eligible or find free resources to help you file for the credit.

flyer

 

 

Earlier this week, the White House and Federal Communications Commission announced that over 10 million households are now enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), gaining access to discounted broadband services through the nation’s largest ever broadband affordability program. The ACP provides connections for telehealth services, distance learning, economic development, government benefits and services, and civic engagement with local, state, and national elected and appointed leaders The FCC will continue its work to ensure that qualifying households know how to enroll and invites you to join in that mission. Below you will find 10 ways you may connect your community with the ACP.

 

1.     Help Your Community Enroll:  Sign up as an enrollment partner today at fcc.gov/ACP.

2.     Spread the Word: Are you organizing school packet pick-ups or a local food drive?  Download and print out ACP flyers to include in pick-up materials: fcc.gov/acp-toolkit.

3.     Request Printed Materials: Printed versions of FCC ACP Outreach Toolkit materials are available.  Send an email to [email protected] and provide details on what you need.

4.     Connect with Local Institutions: Ensure schools, libraries, health clinics, and community centers know about the ACP and have the information they need to help eligible students and patrons enroll.

5.     Involve Your Local Government:  Does your local employment assistance or social services office have ACP information? Put Outreach Toolkit materials in the hands of people who interact with the public – teachers, healthcare providers, and community workers.

6.     Share ACP Info on Your Websites and Social Media: The FCC has ready-to-post graphics, videos, and PSAs available for you to share with your network in the ACP Outreach Toolkit.

7.     Request a Speaker for an Event: Have a local event coming up?  Want to train your members to serve as local ambassadors for ACP? Send a speaker request to  [email protected].

8.     Help Connect the Unconnected: Download and print application forms in English or Spanish.  Households applying for ACP by mail should include a Household Worksheet and copies of their eligibility documentation.  Worksheet in English and Spanish .

9.     Find Local Providers: Browse listings by state or territory at fcc.gov/acp-providers-by-state.

10.   Let EVERYONE Know: Spread the word about ACP on community bulletin boards, both online and around town.