Professor Michael Hussey, an expert in tax law and former dean of Widener Law Commonwealth, testified before the Pennsylvania House Finance Committee recently, emphasizing the critical role of the Earned Income Tax Credit, known also as EITC, in improving financial stability for working Pennsylvanians. Hussey, also a dedicated volunteer with the United Way of the Capital Region’s Money in Your Pocket, better known as MIYP and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, referred to as VITA program, shared his knowledge on the impact of tax credits on working Pennsylvanians.
Hussey, in his 20th season volunteering for MIYP, explained how the Earned Income Tax Credit and the child tax credit benefit thousands of low- and moderate-income families across the state. His coalition of volunteers provides free tax preparation services to individuals and families earning up to $67,000 annually. The EITC, in particular, is designed to support working individuals and families, with some qualifying for refunds of several thousand dollars.
"Over the past two decades, our coalition has prepared more than 74,000 returns, returning approximately $15 million back into the local economy," Hussey said. "Through the EITC and child tax credit, many families receive significant refunds that help cover essential living expenses and provide a financial safety net."
Hussey highlighted personal stories from tax season, including a grandmother raising her grandchildren who received a $10,990 refund, which was used to repair her car and continue working. Another client, a mother of two with an annual income of $21,060, received a refund of $11,213, which she would use to cover basic needs. Hussey emphasized the positive long-term effects of these credits, both on the financial stability of families and on the mental health of individuals who take pride in contributing to society through work.
"These programs are not just about the money; they represent a broader effort to keep individuals engaged in the workforce," he explained. "By providing financial support, we are helping families stay employed, which ultimately strengthens our communities."
As a tax expert and educator, Hussey’s contributions go beyond his work with the VITA program. His advocacy for the Earned Income Tax Credit aligns with his teaching philosophy, where he emphasizes practical, real-world solutions to complex legal and financial issues. His testimony before the committee serves as an example of how legal education can be applied to improve lives in meaningful ways.
Widener Law Commonwealth students benefit from Hussey’s deep expertise in tax law and public service. As part of their education, students have the opportunity to work alongside professionals like Hussey in tax preparation programs, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.
The Money in Your Pocket Coalition continues to operate with the support of local volunteers and organizations, including 240 volunteers across five counties. In his testimony, Hussey also discussed the importance of ethical tax preparation and the rigorous training provided to VITA volunteers, who undergo certification through the IRS."We strive to maintain the highest standards of integrity in every return we prepare," Hussey said. "Our volunteers undergo comprehensive training to ensure they are well-equipped to help clients navigate complex tax issues and maximize their benefits."
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