Our Work with the CalEITC
Baseline has been instrumental in the creation and expansion of the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC), collaborating with policy experts, community leaders, and labor organizations to advocate for policies that provide increased cash payments to working Californians.
Baseline supports legislation aimed at permanently increasing the CalEITC and providing one-time cash payments to individuals and families, thereby boosting incomes, improving well-being, and promoting economic inclusion across the state.
Campaigns
CalEITC4Me
This campaign helps working Californians claim the CalEITC and other tax credits. Through education and community partnerships, it’s helped millions access over $1.9 billion in refunds to build financial stability. CalEITC.org provides free tools like a tax-credit calculator and a VITA locator
Fix the EITC
This campaign advocates for eliminating age restrictions that prevent workers aged 18–24 and over 65 without children from accessing the EITC. This change would extend benefits to approximately seven million additional workers, enhancing financial stability and stimulating local economies through increased spending.
Key Achievements
Strengthening Tax Credits
Baseline and its partners have been a driving force in expanding and strengthening cash back tax credits at both the state and federal levels, aiming to reduce poverty and promote economic equity across California and the country.
Through these comprehensive efforts, Baseline continues to champion policies and programs that uplift working Californians, striving for a more equitable and financially secure future for all.
Creation & Expansion of CalEITC
Baseline played a pivotal role in establishing the CalEITC in 2015. Since then, we have worked to expand its eligibility to include young adults aged 18–24, seniors over 65, and immigrants filing with Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs). These efforts have resulted in over $1.4 billion returned to working families in 2024 alone.
Advocacy for Legislative Reforms
In collaboration with the Prosper California coalition, Baseline has worked collectively to promote policies that expand the EITC and improve financial well-being for individuals and families.
Visit prospercalifornia.org to learn more about our coalition work.