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Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

Based on your annual earnings, you may be eligible to receive the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) from the federal government and/or the State of California.

Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (Federal EITC)

The Federal EITC is a refundable federal income tax credit for low-income working individuals and families. The Federal EITC has no effect on certain welfare benefits. In most cases, Federal EITC payments will not be used to determine eligibility for Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, food stamps, low-income housing, or most Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) payments.

Even if you do not owe federal taxes, you must file a federal tax return to receive the Federal EITC. Be sure to complete the Federal EITC form in the Federal Income Tax Return Booklet.

For information about eligibility, IRS Notice 797, forms, and instructions, contact the IRS:

California Earned Income Tax Credit (California EITC / CalEITC)

You may also be eligible to receive the California Earned Income Tax Credit (California EITC / CalEITC). The California EITC is a refundable state income tax credit for low-income working individuals and families. It is generally treated in the same manner as the Federal EITC and generally will not be used to determine eligibility for welfare benefits under California law.

To claim the California EITC, even if you do not owe California taxes, you must file a California income tax return and complete and attach the California EITC Form (FTB 3514).

For information about availability, eligibility requirements, forms, and filing help, contact the California Franchise Tax Board:

Quick Link

Learn more about the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) on the IRS website (opens in new tab)