Increasing access to the Earned Income Tax Credit for eligible families
Targeting Access and Knowledge of Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Utilization and Policies
This study is testing different ways to help families in the WIC program access the Earned Income Tax Credit so they can get the financial support they deserve.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 64 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sacramento, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT06146621 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to develop and test various culturally tailored interventions to enhance the utilization of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) among participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The study will employ low-touch text messaging, personal tax filing support, and provide information about free tax-filing assistance to eligible families. By addressing barriers to EITC access, the trial seeks to increase the number of families receiving this crucial financial support, particularly focusing on those who are currently eligible but have not claimed their benefits.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are WIC participants in California who are eligible for the EITC but did not claim it in the previous tax year.
Not a fit: Patients who are not enrolled in WIC or who do not meet the eligibility criteria for the EITC will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly increase financial support for low-income families, improving their overall well-being and food security.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of the EITC on social outcomes and health, particularly among marginalized groups, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Enrolled in Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Woman, Infants, and Children (WIC) * Eligible for but did not receive the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in the prior tax year * At least one dependent under 18 years * Having earned income (including income of spouse, if applicable) for the current tax year within EITC eligibility thresholds based on marital status and number of dependents * English or Spanish-speaking * Living in California and not planning to move within the next year * Immigration status compatible with EITC eligibility * Access to a phone that receives text messages * Willing to share relevant fields from tax forms if filing taxes (e.g., adjusted gross income) * Willing to be randomized.
Where this trial is running
Sacramento, California
- California Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) — Sacramento, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Wendi Gosliner, DrPH — University of California Nutrition Policy Institute
- Study coordinator: Rita Hamad, MD, PhD
- Email: rhamad@hsph.harvard.edu
- Phone: 617-432-3753
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.