For 50 years, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) has been helping millions of low- and moderate-income workers reduce their tax burden and improve their financial stability.
Designed to encourage work and support families in poverty, the EITC provides a refundable tax credit that puts money back in the pockets of eligible taxpayers.
Despite its benefits, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimates that one in five eligible taxpayers fail to claim this valuable credit, missing out on financial relief that could make a big difference.
Impact
Since its inception, the EITC has been a key tool in reducing poverty and providing financial assistance to working families. By December 2024, approximately 23 million workers and families received a total of $64 billion in EITC benefits, according to IRS data.
The average EITC payment for tax year 2023 was $2,743, offering significant relief to those who qualify.
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility for the EITC depends on income, filing status, and the number of qualifying children. Workers can use the EITC Assistant, an online tool from the IRS, to check their eligibility.
Major life changes such as marriage, having children, or income fluctuations can affect eligibility.
The IRS also provides a Comparison of Tax Benefits page to help taxpayers know the differences between the EITC and other tax credits.
Income Limits
To qualify for the EITC in tax year 2024, workers must have earned income below the following limits:
| Filing Status | No Children | One Child | Two Children | Three or More Children |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $18,591 | $49,084 | $55,768 | $59,899 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $25,511 | $56,004 | $62,688 | $66,819 |
Requirements
Besides meeting the income limits, workers must also satisfy the following conditions to qualify for the EITC:
- Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien for the entire tax year.
- File a tax return, even if their income is too low to require filing.
- Have a valid Social Security number (SSN) for themselves, their spouse (if filing jointly), and each qualifying child.
- File a return without Form 2555 (Foreign Earned Income).
How to Claim
To receive the EITC, eligible workers must file a tax return and claim the credit. Those who don’t typically file taxes due to low income should still submit a return to claim the EITC, as it is refundable—meaning they could receive a refund even if they owe no taxes.
With 50 years of proven success, the EITC continues to be one of the most effective tools in supporting working families and reducing poverty. If you meet the requirements, don’t leave money on the table—file your return and claim the credit.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the EITC?
Workers with low to moderate income who meet IRS guidelines qualify.
What is the income limit for the EITC in 2024?
It varies by family size, ranging from $18,591 to $66,819.
Do I need to file a tax return to get the EITC?
Yes, even if your income is low, you must file a return to claim it.
How much was the average EITC payment in 2023?
The average EITC payment in 2023 was $2,743.
How do I check if I’m eligible for the EITC?
Use the IRS EITC Assistant tool to check your eligibility online.
