Filing taxes can be confusing and overwhelming even for well-seasoned adults. What documents do I need? How can I get the most out of my return? Which online platform is better/most affordable/most trustworthy?  

Just in Time’s Annual Tax Filing Workshop takes uncertainty out of the equation. On Wednesday, more than 50 participants arrived at the Just in Time office to receive tax prep service that included one-on-one filing with collaborative partners from United Way of San Diego County’s EITC Coalition. 

In preparation for the workshop, youth were given a list of essential documents to bring, including childcare forms and foster youth dependency letters to help them access the Foster Youth Tax Credit worth $1,154.  

Rebecca helping Christopher Kyle (right)

According to state data, approximately 30,000 youth ages 18–25 who were in foster care had qualifying income for the FYTC on their returns in 2022, but only about 1 in 6 actually claimed it. This year, so far, 2,209 have claimed the credit in California, but only 95 in San Diego County, according to JAYBAY data tracking pulled the week of March 20th. 

With the help of volunteers, youth who attended the workshop were able to decipher their eligible credits and get big returns on their taxes. 

“For me, I really struggle with understanding the different forms and amounts that you have to report. Even though it seems self-explanatory. If you make one little mistake, it can really mess up your taxes,” said JIT alumni Jacob McDermott, “My tax preparer was amazing. He walked me through each form. I was in shock when I realized I was getting $4,000 back. I was sure I would owe this year.”  

Jacob was able to receive credits for going to school and for unemployment that he experienced earlier in the year. He plans to put his tax refund toward a new car, one that is reliable enough to get him to his new job on time. 

Just in Time will coordinate an additional tax prep workshop next week with more United Way EITC coalition partners onsite to help. The expanded effort is made possible by the generous support of San Diego Foundation who awarded Just in Time a $15,000 grant to support additional workshops and a more robust coordination with United Way San Diego County.