Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) 2025: up to $8,046

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable credit designed to help low- and moderate-income workers. Because it's refundable, it can increase your refund even if you owe no tax. Here are the amounts and rules for tax year 2025.

How much is the EITC in 2025?

The maximum credit depends on how many qualifying children you have:

  • No children: up to $649
  • 1 child: up to $4,328
  • 2 children: up to $7,152
  • 3 or more children: up to $8,046

2025 income limits

To qualify, your earned income and AGI must be below these limits:

  • No children: $19,104 (single) · $26,214 (married filing jointly)
  • 1 child: $50,434 (single) · $57,554 (joint)
  • 2 children: $57,310 (single) · $64,430 (joint)
  • 3 or more children: $61,555 (single) · $68,675 (joint)

Investment income limit

If your investment income (interest, dividends, etc.) exceeds $11,950 in 2025, you cannot claim the EITC. It's a hard cutoff — even one dollar over disqualifies you.

Who qualifies?

  • You must have earned income (wages, tips, or self-employment income).
  • You, your spouse, and your qualifying children must have a valid Social Security number.
  • If you have no qualifying children, you generally must be between 25 and 64 years old.
  • You can't file as "married filing separately" (with very limited exceptions).

How do you claim it?

The EITC is claimed on your Form 1040. If you have qualifying children, you must also attach Schedule EIC with each child's information.

Frequently asked questions

Is the EITC refundable? Yes. You can receive the credit as a refund even if you owe no tax.

Can I claim it without children? Yes, if you're between 25 and 64 and meet the income limits, with a credit of up to $649.

When does the EITC refund arrive? By law, the IRS can't issue refunds that include the EITC before mid-February, to help prevent fraud.

Learn to calculate and claim the EITC without errors. At Aprendiendo Taxes con Alex, we offer courses taught by an IRS Enrolled Agent, for preparers with or without a PTIN. Explore our courses here.

General information for tax year 2025; not individual tax advice. Consult your preparer for your specific situation.

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