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The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable federal tax credit for low- to moderate-income workers.
For tax year 2024 (the return you file in 2025), the maximum EITC is $7,830 for families with three or more qualifying children.
Smaller maximums apply if you have two, one, or no children. Because the credit is refundable, you can receive a refund even if your tax owed is zero.
Payment Dates In 2025
EITC refunds follow special timing rules under the PATH Act.
Even if you file early and choose direct deposit, the IRS cannot issue refunds on returns claiming the EITC (or the Additional Child Tax Credit) before mid-February.
After the hold lifts, most accurate e-filed returns with direct deposit fund within about 21 days of IRS acceptance.
That typically places first EITC direct deposits in late February to early March, with later filers paid on a rolling basis.
Use Where’s My Refund? to track status once your return is accepted.
Credit Amounts And Income Limits (Tax Year 2024, Filed In 2025)
The table below shows the maximum credit by family size and the approximate top AGI limits to still qualify. Your exact credit phases in and out based on earned income and filing status.
| Qualifying Children | Max EITC (2024) | AGI Limit (Single/HOH) | AGI Limit (Married Filing Jointly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 | $25,511 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 | $56,004 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 | $62,688 |
| 3 or more | $7,830 | $59,899 | $66,819 |
Other key numbers: the investment income limit is $11,600 for eligibility, and you must have earned income (wages, salaries, or self-employment).
Who Qualifies For The EITC?
You may qualify if you:
- Have earned income and AGI within the limits above.
- Hold a valid Social Security number (you, spouse, and any children claimed).
- Are a U.S. citizen or resident alien for the full year.
- Are not filing Married Filing Separately and not claimed as someone else’s dependent.
- If claiming children, each qualifying child must meet relationship, age, residency, and joint return tests.
- Workers without children can still claim a smaller EITC if they meet income limits and are generally age 25–64.
How To Receive Your Refund Faster
- E-file early with an accurate return and choose direct deposit to one bank account.
- Double-check SSNs, names, and child eligibility to avoid manual reviews.
- Use W-2s/1099s and year-end pay statements to report income correctly.
- Monitor Where’s My Refund? daily (it updates overnight) after the IRS accepts your e-filed return.
Common Reasons For Delays
- Errors in SSNs, filing status, or income.
- Mismatches with W-2/1099 data the IRS receives from employers.
- Injured spouse claims, identity verification, or additional EITC due-diligence checks.
- Paper filing instead of e-file or opting for a paper check.
The $7,830 EITC remains one of the largest refundable credits available to working families.
To get your 2025 EITC refund as soon as possible, e-file, choose direct deposit, ensure every detail is accurate, and remember the PATH Act means no EITC refunds before mid-February.
After that, most clean returns fund within the standard 21-day window.
Planning ahead—and using Where’s My Refund?—can help you avoid surprises and receive your money sooner.
FAQs
Can I get the EITC with no children?
Yes. Workers without children may qualify for a smaller credit (up to $632 for 2024) if they meet age, income, and other rules.
Do I have to owe taxes to get the EITC?
No. The EITC is refundable, so you can receive a refund even if your tax bill is zero.
Why hasn’t my refund arrived yet?
Returns claiming EITC are held until mid-February by law. After that, most accurate e-filed returns with direct deposit arrive within about 21 days of IRS acceptance.