Earned Income Tax Credit

Many people in Washington are eligible to receive the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) from the IRS when they file their federal income taxes. This credit is potentially worth thousands of dollars. The tax credit goes unclaimed about 20 percent of the time, meaning that nearly half a million Washingtonians miss out. 

Woman working on laptop next to child
Persons with disabilities, those living in rural areas, working grandparents, Native American communities, those who are serving or who have served in the military and many others are eligible to receive the credit. This year, make sure and check to see if you qualify for EITC before you file. Use the IRS’s EITC Assistant to find out if you’re eligible.
  • Child-related tax credits explained: The IRS recently published Publication 5585 (attached and linked below), which describes eligibility for child-related 2021 tax credits (Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and the Child and Dependent Care Credit) for people who may qualify to receive a tax refund even if they are not required to file a tax return. You may be eligible for up to $2,000 back per child under the age of 17.
  • Get ready for taxes: The IRS encourages taxpayers to take important actions this month to help them file their federal tax returns in 2022, including special steps related to Economic Impact Payments and advance Child Tax Credit payments.

New Washington Working Families Tax Credit

New Washington Working Families Tax Credit In 2023, The Washington State Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) can provide up to $1,200 back in addition to the EITC. To apply and learn more, visit the Working Families Credit website or call 360-763-7300.

Find a Free Tax Filing Service Near You

Do you have low to moderate income? If so you may be able to get free help filing your taxes with the help of two free programs, VITA – Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and AARP Tax-Aide. These programs have trained volunteers which can assist in completing and filing your basic tax return, including claiming the EITC – Earned Income Tax Credit if you are eligible.

It's Not Too Late to File for Prior Year Returns

You can still file your tax returns for 2019, 2020 and 2021 to claim EITC if you were eligible. But you must file to claim it! Find out more here.

Other helpful links

Check out the Washington Financial Education Calendar to learn about money management classes being offered around the state.

Resources

Contact

For more information, contact our office!

Name: Karl Hoffmann, Program Manager

Email:  CSBG@Commerce.wa.gov
Phone:  360-725-2903