Earned Income Tax Credit
AN OVERVIEW

TaxCreditResources.org is a source for information about the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other tax credits available from Federal and state governments. The Earned Income Tax Credit is a work promotion and anti-poverty program that provides low-income workers additional money beyond income to encourage working. This web site explains the Earned Income Tax Credit program including how to claim the EITC on a Federal tax return, where to find the correct tax return forms and ways to find out if you are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), also known as the earned income credit (EIC), is a work incentive program designed to keep money in the hands of those who need it most. For those who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, this program can lower your taxes or eliminate them altogether. If your credit is larger than the amount owed, you may be entitled to a cash refund through the Earned Income Tax Credit.

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Is the Earned Income Tax Credit available from my state?

Some states offer a similar program to the Earned Income Tax Credit on the state level. About 15 states including the District of Columbia offer a version of the Earned Income Tax Credit program. Workers who qualify for and receive the Earned Income Tax Credit may be able to claim an additional state EIC on their state income tax return.

How do I claim Earned Income Tax Credit

If you want to claim or apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit, you must file a tax return with the IRS (usually by April 15th). To file a tax return, you must complete one of three forms: Form 1040EZ, Form 1040A, or Form 1040 and submit it to the IRS. Workers with one or more qualifying children must also complete the Schedule EIC form. These forms are available for free from several locations, including the IRS web site. These forms may also be available from your local library or post office. If you need assistance in filing your tax return or claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit, help is available for free from several locations.

There are Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites where you can go to get free help to complete your tax forms and with claiming Earned Income Tax Credit. These VITA sites are open during tax season (January-April).