A significant victory for California’s low-income people and families

Gov. Newsom and the State Legislature have just passed AB157, a bill to restore an additional $2 million to the Free Tax Preparation Assistance (FTPA), ITIN application support, and Education and Outreach (E&O) services conducted by community organizations. This is a smart investment that will help struggling Californians make ends meet.

With an additional $2M allocated, the total investment now stands at $12 million. Every dollar of additional funding ensures that more low-income Californians can access trusted community partners to help them claim every credit they are entitled to. Moreover, these services are particularly beneficial for those who often miss out on state tax credits, including individuals filing with ITINs.

In 2023, these initiatives directed over $1.3 billion into the hands of more than 3.5 million Californians. Programs like free tax preparation services played a pivotal role in ensuring families could afford basic necessities like food, housing, and childcare. With more funding restored this year, more people will again be able to access these same services.

Let Governor Newsom and your representatives in the State Legislature know you appreciate their efforts to support low-income people in California.