United Way's mission is to create pathways out of poverty and Claim It! is one of the tools that can aid in the process; so we've proud to collaborate with Prepare + Prosper to reach as many eligible taxpayers as possible," says Meghan Barp, United Way senior vice president of Community Impact. "An example is our strategic placement of billboards in high traffic areas. We want to see a significant increase in the number of people 'claiming' the tax credits they've worked for."

According to the IRS, one in five taxpayers doesn't claim the EITC. Examples include the recently unemployed or self-employed, or those living in rural areas. EITC eligibility is determined by the amount of earned income and the number of dependents. The average amount for a family of three can be more than $6,000.

"The federal Earned Income Tax Credit and the Minnesota Working Family Credit are powerful tools for our families - helping to pull thousands of families headed by working adults out of poverty," said Lt. Governor Tina Smith. "The benefit to our communities also is significant; the credit generates an additional $1.50 for the local economy for every $1.00 claimed by tax filers."

Minnesota is one of 26 states with a state version called the Minnesota Working Family Credit (WFC).

"The Earned Income Tax Credit is our nation's largest investment to boost the wages of working families. In 2013, it supplemented the paychecks of nearly 350,000 Minnesotans," said Representative Keith Ellison. He continued, "Nationwide, it lifted six million families out of poverty, helping them pay for rent and groceries, repair a car or put aside savings for the future. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the EITC, Congress should expand the benefits to more working families."

Minnesotans who qualify for the EITC likely qualify for free tax preparation. There are more than 250 free tax preparation sites across the state.

"Tax season is incredibly important for so many low- and moderate-income families," said Tracy Fischman, executive director of Prepare + Prosper. "Because of tax credits like the EITC and WFC, we call it a 'money-moment.' It's likely the one time of year when people receive a large sum of money and can think about using it to save and get ahead."

To locate a free tax preparation site, call United Way 2-1-1 by dialing 2-1-1 or 651-291-0211, statewide, toll-free 1-800-543-7709; or visit www.youclaimit.org.