A New Tax Credit Program

HARTFORD (AP) — Connecticut officials are kicking off a new tax season that includes a new earned income tax credit program for the working poor.

Governor Dannel P. Malloy, state tax Commissioner Kevin Sullivan, Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney, and other dignitaries are gathering Tuesday to discuss a new outreach campaign for the 2012 tax season, including information about dozens of free tax preparation sites that will be made available throughout the state.

Under the $110 million program, credits ranging from $137 to $1,700 will be provided to single heads of households with incomes of between $5,950 and $16,500, and up to $21,500 for joint tax filers.

The Connecticut Association of Human Services estimates more than 180,000 households are expected to receive an average credit of about $450 during the 2012 tax season.