The earned income tax credit, a tax break for low-income workers, will be promoted during an EITC Awareness Day set for two sites on O'ahu today.

Last year, more than 88,000 Hawai'i taxpayers applied for the tax credit and received more than $155 million. The credit is available to people who meet certain eligibility requirements and can lower federal taxes or factor in a refund.

The maximum credit for the 2008 tax year is $4,824 for a family with two or more children making less than $41,646.

To support the awareness day the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii and the Waipahu Community Association/Weed & Seed II will offer free tax preparation assistance for people who may qualify for the credit.

Legal Aid will offer the help at its 924 Bethel St. offices today between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. by appointment. People are asked to call 527-8050.

The Waipahu Community Association/Weed & Seed II program at 94-340 Waipahu Depot Road will be between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m today. People are asked to call 677-6939 for appointments. Tax preparation help will also be available on Wednesdays and Fridays through April 15.

Other free tax help will be offered during tax preparation season. Locations and hours of such sites are available by calling Aloha United Way at 877-275-6569 or the AUW hot line at 211. The AARP TAX-Aide also has information at 888-227-7669.