CHICAGO (CBS) — Governor Pat Quinn says tens of thousands of Illinois families are missing out on thousands in tax breaks reports WBBM’s Mike Krauser.

Governor Quinn stopped by Truman College where volunteers with the Center for Economic Progress are helping low-income tax payers to file their returns.

Quinn said 10-20 percent of eligible people are not taking advantage of the state’s earned income tax credit.

“It is puzzling because this is money back, oftentimes thousands of dollars that you are entitled to a refund from the federal government and the state government and folks don’t know how to apply,” said Quinn.

Individuals earning less than $25,000 and families earning less than $50,000 are eligible for free tax help. Tricia Smith took advantage of it and can say enough.

“My experience there was so awesome, I could not believe I said ‘wow,’” said Smith.

There is information on the earned income tax credit and free tax information help on the state’s website.