FARMINGTON — Free tax preparation through Western Maine CA$H Coalition started this week in Franklin County and runs through March 26.

Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day is Friday, Jan. 30. It’s a nationwide effort to increase awareness about the Earned Income Tax Credit and free tax-preparation sites.

“EITC is a tax benefit for working people and their families and it allows more dollars to flow into our communities. It’s money workers can use for groceries, rent, utilities or to save for a rainy day,” Tess Armstrong, IRS stakeholder relationship tax consultant, said.

Last year, more than 28 million workers received more than $66 billion in Earned Income Tax Credit refunds. In Maine, 97,930 tax returns were filed for nearly $200 million of Earned Income Tax Credit.

Armstrong said those who worked last year and had income of less than $52,427 could be eligible for up to a $6,143 refund when they file and have qualifying children. Workers without a qualifying child could be eligible for up to $496.

The tax preparation site will be open from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays on the third floor of Roberts Learning Center at the University of Maine at Farmington.

While walk-ins will be served as time permits, people are asked to schedule an appointment to ensure tax preparer availability. Call (207) 778-7954 to make an appointment.

People can learn how to earn, save and make the most of their money at the launch of the free tax prep program during the “Earn It, Keep It, Grow It.” It will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, at Save-A-Lot in the Mt. Blue Plaza on Wilton Road in Farmington. Free food will be available while coalition representatives, legislators and community members talk about the beneficial effects of CA$H Maine in Greater Franklin County.

For more information on the celebration, how to be a volunteer or what resources the Western Maine CA$H Coalition has available, call (207) 778-2757.

Western Maine CA$H Coalition members and supporters include The University of Maine at Farmington; United Way of the Tri-Valley Area; Bangor Savings Bank; Foster Technology Center; Women, Work & Community; Western Maine Community Action; KeyBank; the Internal Revenue Service; and the John T. Gorman Foundation.