Every year, millions of working people leave money on the table because they don’t claim tax credits they qualify for or pay high fees to tax preparers. Free help is available, and for many families, tax season can bring a meaningful refund.
What the Earned Income Tax Credit is
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a refundable tax credit for people who work and have low to moderate income. “Refundable” means that even if you owe little or no tax, you can still get the credit back as a refund. The amount depends on your income, filing status, and number of qualifying children. Workers without children can also qualify for a smaller credit.
Other credits worth knowing about
- Child Tax Credit for families with qualifying children
- Child and Dependent Care Credit for child care costs while you work
- Some states also offer their own earned income credits
Free tax help through VITA and TCE
The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, called VITA, offers free tax preparation for people who generally earn below a set income limit, people with disabilities, and people who speak limited English. Tax Counseling for the Elderly, or TCE, focuses on people 60 and older. IRS-certified volunteers prepare and file your return for free.
What to bring to your appointment
- Photo ID for you and your spouse
- Social Security cards or ITIN letters for everyone on your return
- All W-2s and 1099s
- Last year’s tax return, if you have it
- Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit
- Records of child care costs and the provider’s tax ID
Avoid costly mistakes
- Be careful with refund advance loans and high fees from paid preparers.
- Never sign a blank return.
- Make sure your refund goes to your own bank account or card.
- Watch out for scammers pretending to be the IRS. The IRS usually contacts people first by mail.
A real-life example
Darnell, a warehouse worker with one child, had always paid a storefront preparer more than a hundred dollars to file. A coworker told him about a VITA site at the public library. A volunteer prepared his return for free and made sure he claimed the EITC and Child Tax Credit.
His refund arrived by direct deposit, and he didn’t pay any preparation fees.
Tips from people who have been through it
- Book a VITA appointment early. Sites get busy in February and March.
- Keep all your tax documents in one envelope as they arrive.
- Ask the volunteer to explain each credit you’re claiming.
- Save a copy of your return every year.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to have kids to get the EITC?
No. Workers without qualifying children may get a smaller credit if they meet age and income rules.
Does a tax refund affect my benefits?
Federal tax refunds generally aren’t counted as income for federal benefits for a set period. Ask your caseworker about your state’s rules.
Can I file for free online?
The IRS lists free filing options on its website for people under certain income limits.
Related guides
- Child Care Assistance for Working Parents
- TANF Cash Assistance: What It Is and How to Apply
- Help Paying Rent for Single Mothers: Where to Turn
Official resources
This guide is for general information only. US Assistance Guide is an independent website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any government agency. Program rules, income limits, and benefit amounts change often and vary by state, so always confirm details with the official agency before you apply.