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Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Information

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) sometimes called the Earned Income Credit (EIC), is a refundable federal income tax credit for low-income working individuals and families. Congress originally approved the tax credit legislation in 1975 in part to offset the burden of social security taxes and to provide an incentive to work. When the EITC exceeds the amount of taxes owed, it results in a tax refund to those who claim and qualify for the credit.

The EITC has no effect on most public benefits. In most cases, EITC payments will not be used to determine eligibility for Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), food stamps, low-income housing or most Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) payments.

Claim your Earned Income Tax Credit and have your returned prepared and e-filed for FREE at one of our local tax sites. To qualify, taxpayers must meet certain requirements and file a tax return, even if they did not earn enough money to be obligated to file a tax return.

Where to go for free tax prep

What to bring

  • Your spouse, if filing jointly
  • Valid picture I.D.
  • Social Security card(s) for you, your spouse, children, and any others shown on the tax return
  • A copy of last year’s tax return is helpful but not required
  • Copies of ALL W-2s, 1098s, 1099s, Social Security statement, and the amount of other income received by you, and your spouse if applicable
  • Form 8332 for non-custodial parent claiming child
  • Child/Dependent Care provider’s tax number, if applicable
  • Student loan interest/college tuition expenses paid
  • For direct deposit, bring bank account number and routing transit number – a copy of a voided check
  • Additional documentation to claim possible tax credits, such as the first-time homebuyer credit

Do you qualify for the EITC?

Earned Income and adjusted gross income (AGI) must each be less than:

  • $45,060 ($50,270 married filing jointly) with three or more qualifying children
  • $41,952 ($47,162 married filing jointly) with two qualifying children
  • $36,920 ($42,130 married filing jointly) with one qualifying child
  • $13,980 ($19,190 married filing jointly) with no qualifying children

Tax Year 2012 maximum credit:

  • $5,891 with three or more qualifying children
  • $5,236 with two qualifying children
  • $3,169 with one qualifying child
  • $475 with no qualifying children

Investment income must be $3,200 or less for the year.

 

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