Free Tax Prep Los Angeles launched its 2025 tax season with a press conference on January 31 at Van Nuys City Hall, raising awareness about the free tax preparation services available to eligible Angelenos earning up to $67,000 annually.
Los Angeles City Councilmembers Imelda Padilla and Hugo Soto-Martinez were joined by Community Investment for Families Department (CIFD) General Manager Abigail R. Marquez, as they highlighted expanded tax credits available to low-income residents, and the ease of filing through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
“The Free Tax Prep LA program is another way we’re standing up for working families in Los Angeles, especially as so many are hurting from the devastating wildfires,” Councilmember Padilla said. “We know that eligible families can claim over $10,000 in tax credits—an essential lifeline for those struggling to recover. Our responsibility is to connect Angelenos to resources that can make a real difference, and this program helps put money back in the pockets of those who need it most.”
In Los Angeles County alone, over $580 million in unclaimed federal and state tax credits are left on the table each year. Eligible families can claim credits like the Federal and State Earned Income Tax Credits, Federal Child Tax Credit, and the State’s Young Child Tax Credit, putting money directly into their pockets.
“We know that hardworking, low-income families are some of those most impacted by the wildfires, and these credits allow impacted Angelenos immediate resources to help them begin to rebuild financial stability.” Councilmember Soto-Martinez said. “Those families, and all Angelenos, deserve to claim the cash they earned.”
This tax season, eligible taxpayers can receive up to $7,830 through the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Additionally, California offers up to $3,644 through the CalEITC, and up to $1,154 through both the Young Child Tax Credit and the Foster Youth Tax Credit. These credits can make a substantial difference for low-income families and individuals, allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned money.
Now in its ninth year, FTPLA is a collaborative effort between the City of Los Angeles’ Community Investment for Families Department (CIFD), the County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer and Business Affairs, Koreatown Youth + Community Center, and the United Way of Greater Los Angeles. It continues to grow and serve more families.
“In 2024, FTPLA grew to 45 locations that completed over 17,400 free returns, putting $21.4M back in the hands of low-income households,” CIFD GM Marquez said. “While this accomplishment is commendable, there remains significant untapped potential that we are committed to unlocking through FTPLA and other programs that directly tackle poverty.”
CIFD, through its network of 19 FamilySource Centers (FSCs), provides these services to low-income tax filers throughout the City of L.A. On February 1, all 19 FamilySource Centers held a Super Saturday event, inviting Angelenos to visit their local FSCs to receive free tax assistance.
For more information, please visit www.FreeTaxPrepLA.com.