EITC eligibility guide for 2025-2026

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a refundable credit for low-to-moderate income workers. Use this guide to review 2025-2026 eligibility, understand income and dependency rules, and estimate your credit with TaxGuide Pro calculators.

Who qualifies

  • Income must fall within IRS eligibility ranges.
  • Filing status and dependents affect eligibility.
  • Investment income limits can apply.

Income and dependency rules

  • Earned income from wages or self-employment counts.
  • Dependents must meet relationship, age, and residency tests.

Prepare before filing

  • Gather W-2/1099 income and dependent information.
  • Verify filing status and residency details.

Related calculators

Earned Income Tax Credit checker

Estimate EITC eligibility and credit value.

Dependent eligibility checker

Confirm dependent status for EITC.

Child Tax Credit eligibility + estimate

Estimate CTC alongside EITC.

Do I need to file? wizard

Check filing requirements for your situation.

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FAQ

Can self-employed workers claim EITC?

Yes, if earned income and other requirements are met. Keep records to support income.

Updated 2026-01-20. TaxGuide Pro provides educational tax guidance, not legal advice.