Don't Leave Money
On the Table.

25% of eligible taxpayers miss the Earned Income Credit every year. Find out if you qualify and how much you could get — up to $8,231.

Step 1 of 3

Step 1: Filing Information

The EIC depends on your filing status, income, and number of qualifying children.

Filing Status

Note: MFS filers are generally not eligible for the EIC.

Number of qualifying children ?A qualifying child must: (1) be your son, daughter, stepchild, foster child, sibling, or descendant; (2) be under 19, under 24 if a student, or permanently disabled; (3) have lived with you for more than half the year; (4) not file a joint return (unless only to claim a refund).

Step 2: Your Income

Earned income and investment income

The EIC is based on earned income (wages, salaries, self-employment). You must have earned income to qualify.

Earned income (wages + self-employment net profit) ?W-2 wages (box 1) plus net self-employment income. Do NOT include unemployment, Social Security, pensions, or investment income here.

Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) ?Your total income minus above-the-line deductions (Form 1040, Line 11). If your AGI differs from earned income, enter it here. Otherwise enter the same amount.

Investment income (interest, dividends, capital gains, rental) ?If your investment income exceeds $11,950 for 2025, you do NOT qualify for the EIC regardless of earned income.

Step 3: Eligibility Questions

A few more questions to confirm you meet all the basic requirements.

You (and spouse, if MFJ) have a valid Social Security number

You are a U.S. citizen or resident alien for the full year

You are NOT claimed as a dependent on someone else's return

You are age 25–64 by end of 2025 (required if no qualifying children; if MFJ, only one spouse must meet this)

TaxDecoded

This analysis is for educational and informational purposes only.
It does not constitute tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Built by TaxDecoded

This tool is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Tax laws are complex and individual circumstances vary. Consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

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Don't Leave MoneyOn the Table.

Don't Leave Money
On the Table.