AUGUSTA— Workers may get a larger tax refund this year because of the Earned Income Tax Credit. But to get it, you must file a tax return and claim it.

Jan. 30 marks EITC Awareness Day, a nationwide effort to increase awareness about the tax credit and free tax preparation sites.

“Earned Income Tax Credit is a tax benefit for working people and their families and it allows more dollars to flow into communities. It’s money workers can use for groceries, rent, utilities or to save for a rainy day,” said Tess Armstrong, IRS stakeholder relationship tax consultant.

Last year, more than 28 million workers received more than $66 billion in EITC refunds. In Maine, just under 98,000 EITC tax returns were filed ”“ generating nearly $2 million of Earned Income Tax Credit.

Those earning less than $52,427 last year are advised by Armstrong to check their eligibility for EITC, which can mean can mean up to a $6,143 refund to those filing a return if there are qualifying children in the family. Workers without a qualifying child could be eligible for a smaller credit up to $496 dollars, she said. On average, EITC adds $2,400 to refunds.

EITC is complex. It varies by income, family size and filing status. With the exception of someone who receives certain disability income, filers must work as an employee or operate their own business or farm to qualify for EITC. Those qualifying for EITC must file a tax return to claim the credit, even if there have no tax to pay.

Volunteers ”“ trained and certified by the Internal Revenue Service ”“ are available to assist in communities throughout Maine. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site volunteers will ask you the questions to find out if you qualify for the EITC and other beneficial tax credits. They can also prepare and electronically file tax returns at CA$H Maine and AARP Tax-Aide sites throughout the state at no cost to you.

CA$H Maine, a collaboration of 10 statewide coalitions, comprised of 50 non- and for-profit partners, work together, often in collaboration with AARP Tax- Aide volunteers, to help low- and moderate-income Mainers make the most of their money. Information about other resources such as money management classes, will be available through CA$H Maine as well.

“Our community volunteers help you get EITC and the maximum refund you’re due. Our goal is to help you get it and get it right,” said Janet Smith, Women, Work, and Community regional manager and western Maine CA$H coalition partner. “This is money you can save or use to pay off bills, buy that car to get to work or make a down payment on a home. Let us help make your life a little easier.”

For information about free tax help in the area, and to make an appointment, call the York County Community Action tax prep line at 324-5762 ext. 2718.

Super Refund Saturday, a statewide, free tax clinic kick-off day, will be held on Feb. 7 at York County Community Action, 6 Spruce St., Sanford.