The bill mandates collaboration between the Illinois Department of Revenue, Department of Human Services, and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services. This collaboration aims to ensure that eligible individuals can claim their tax credits with minimal barriers. The automated process not only simplifies the tax return filing for eligible individuals but also enhances the efficiency of government agencies by reducing paperwork, ultimately improving access to earned income tax credits for low-income workers.
Summary
House Bill 3298, introduced by Representative Anna Moeller, amends the Department of Revenue Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois by adding provisions for an automated tax filing process. The bill primarily targets individuals eligible for both the federal and state earned income tax credits, particularly focusing on those who earn less than the federal income tax filing thresholds. This initiative is set to streamline the claiming of earned income tax credits for low-income individuals, making it more accessible and user-friendly.
Contention
While the bill appears beneficial for many low-income individuals, there could be potential concerns regarding implementation, including how effectively these departments can collaborate and manage the automated systems. The effectiveness of this system will be reviewed by the Illinois Commission on Poverty Alleviation and Economic Security starting in 2026, determining whether the program should be expanded to include other low-income populations. This aspect highlights existing doubts about whether the bill addresses all possible complexities in assisting low-income persons and if it truly meets their needs.