Getting started.
Who this helps
Workers with low or moderate income may qualify if they have earned income and meet IRS income, Social Security number, citizenship or residency, and filing rules. People without a qualifying child may still qualify under separate rules.
How to get started
The IRS may delay an EITC refund. By law, it cannot issue refunds for returns claiming the credit before mid-February.
Check if you qualify.
Use the IRS EITC Qualification Assistant on the IRS website or review the IRS basic rules.
File a federal return.
Claim the credit on Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR, even if you do not otherwise need to file.
Add Schedule EIC if needed.
If you claim a qualifying child, complete and attach Schedule EIC to your tax return. You do not need Schedule EIC if you claim the credit without a qualifying child.
How they can help.
The EITC can lower federal tax owed and may increase a refund. The credit amount can change based on income, qualifying children or dependents, disability, and other rules.
- Earned Income Tax Credit for eligible workers
- Credit amount based on income and qualifying factors
- Free tax preparation help from IRS-certified volunteers
- IRS EITC Qualification Assistant
- Form 1040 or 1040-SR filing instructions, with Schedule EIC for a qualifying child
A few questions before you go.
Check how the service works, when it is available, and any costs. Ask about communication or accessibility support if you need it.
- Can I qualify without a qualifying child?
- Which income counts for the credit?
- How does my filing status affect my claim?
- Should I attach Schedule EIC?