Sample News Release
Instructions: Copy and paste the template and fill in the blanks below for use as a press release.
NEWS RELEASE
For more information, contact: [Name]
[Phone number]
Unexpected funds due many New York city residents if they reply
No one is ringing doorbells with balloons and oversized checks in hand, but a letter in the mail could be almost as good for many New York City residents. The Department of Finance is notifying more than 5.500 residents they could be entitled to hundreds -- or even thousands -- of dollars from New York State, New York City and the IRS.
According to [spokesperson name], [title], [agency], the letters are going to individuals who appear to be eligible for but did not claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) on their 2008 federal and state income tax returns. EITC is a refundable tax credit available to many workers and self-employed individuals whose incomes were under $42,000 in 2008.
"Our residents need every dollar they can get in today's tight economy," [name] said. "These taxpayers could be eligible to receive up to $4,824 from the IRS. This is money that could make their lives a little easier during tough times, but they must respond to claim it."
[name] said IRS sent these taxpayers a previous letter, so this is a second attempt to notify residents about potential unclaimed 2008 EITC. "Look for this letter. Read it and reply," [name] said. "You must provide the information requested to get your money."
The letters include everything needed to claim their credit, including a worksheet that takes the place of an amended return. Residents can get help filling out the forms at [enter assistance location(s)] or can call [enter phone number].
You may also be eligible for the state Earned Income Tax Credit for tax year 2008. If New York State determines you qualify for this credit, they will contact you in March 2012. You do not have to do anything to claim the State and/or City Earned Income Tax Credit for tax year 2008 but you must reply to get your EITC from IRS.
[name] also urges workers who earned less than $49,000 in 2010 or $48,000 in 2009 to check their returns to see if they qualified for EITC in either of those years. And,if eligible, file an amended return for those years claiming the credit.
More Resources for Partners of the NYC Finance Department Project
Return to Special Outreach Project with New York City's Department of Finance
Last updated: 2/27/2012