The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is one of the most valuable tax breaks available to working Americans—and in 2025, it could be worth as much as $7,830. This credit is designed to help low- to moderate-income workers, especially families with children.
The best part? It’s refundable, which means you can get money back even if you don’t owe any taxes. If you’re working hard and earning modest wages, this benefit could provide a big boost to your budget.
Overview
The maximum EITC for the 2024 tax year (filed in 2025) is $7,830 for families with three or more qualifying children. While eligibility and the final amount depend on your income, family size, and filing status, many Americans leave this credit unclaimed each year. Don’t be one of them.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Max EITC (2024 Tax Year) | $7,830 (3+ qualifying children) |
| Income Limit (Single/HOH) | $59,899 for 3+ children |
| Income Limit (Married) | $66,819 for 3+ children |
| Investment Income Limit | $11,600 or less |
| Refund Timeline (May 2025) | Begins early May for April filers |
| IRS Start Date | January 27, 2025 |
| Filing Deadline | April 15, 2025 (Oct. 15 with extension) |
What Is the EITC?
The Earned Income Tax Credit is a federal credit meant to support workers with modest incomes. It’s unique because it’s refundable. So even if you don’t owe any taxes, you can still get a refund if you qualify.
The credit amount depends on your earned income and how many qualifying children you claim. It also adjusts each year for inflation. For many families, the EITC is the largest refund they’ll receive all year.
2024 Income Limits
Here’s a full breakdown of the income limits and potential credit amounts for the 2024 tax year:
| Qualifying Children | Max AGI (Single/HOH) | Max AGI (Married Filing Jointly) | Max Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $18,591 | $25,511 | $632 |
| 1 | $49,084 | $56,004 | $4,213 |
| 2 | $55,768 | $62,688 | $6,960 |
| 3 or more | $59,899 | $66,819 | $7,830 |
Who Qualifies?
To claim the EITC, you must meet the following:
Basic Requirements:
- You must have earned income (wages, self-employment, or qualifying disability pay)
- You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien for the full year
- You must have a valid Social Security number
- You cannot file “Married Filing Separately” (with limited exceptions)
- You cannot be claimed as a dependent by someone else
- Investment income must be under $11,600
For Claiming Children:
Each child must:
- Be your child, stepchild, sibling, foster child, or their descendant
- Be under 19 (or under 24 if a full-time student), or any age if permanently disabled
- Live with you in the U.S. for more than half the year
- Not file a joint return unless only to claim a refund
May 2025 Refund Timeline
The PATH Act requires the IRS to hold refunds that include the EITC until mid-February. If you file your return in April 2025, here’s when you might get your refund:
| Filed By | Direct Deposit | Paper Check |
|---|---|---|
| April 21 | May 2 | May 9 |
| April 28 | May 9 | May 16 |
| May 5 | May 16 | May 23 |
| May 12 | May 23 | May 30 |
| May 19 | May 30 | June 6 |
These are estimates—errors or missing info can delay your refund.
How to Claim
Collect your W-2s, 1099s, Social Security numbers, and proof for your children (like school or medical records).
Use the IRS EITC Assistant
This tool on IRS.gov helps determine your eligibility.
File Form 1040
You must use Form 1040 or 1040-SR and include Schedule EIC if claiming children.
Use Free File (If Eligible)
If your AGI is $84,000 or less, you can use IRS Free File to submit your taxes at no cost.
Track Your Refund
Check “Where’s My Refund?” on IRS.gov or use the IRS2Go app for real-time updates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing with the wrong Social Security number
- Missing the deadline (April 15 or October 15 with extension)
- Forgetting to attach Schedule EIC
- Claiming a child who doesn’t meet IRS guidelines
- Not reporting all earned income
Taking time to file accurately can save weeks of delay.
FAQs
What is the max EITC in 2025?
$7,830 for families with 3 or more qualifying children.
Can I get the EITC without kids?
Yes, but the credit is smaller—up to $632 for 2024 taxes.
When will EITC refunds be sent in May 2025?
Most arrive by early to late May if filed in April.
Do I need to file a special form?
Yes, include Schedule EIC with Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
What’s the income limit for EITC?
Up to $66,819 for married filers with 3+ children.
