# What is the Turbotax earned income tax credit?

Olivia Watson · August 4, 2026

> The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) was first introduced in 1975 as a way to provide financial assistance to low-to-moderate income working individuals...

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) was first introduced in 1975 as a way to provide financial assistance to low-to-moderate income working individuals and families.

In 2024, the maximum EITC amount is $6,728 for taxpayers filing jointly with three or more qualifying children, up from $6,164 in 2023.

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To qualify for the EITC in 2024, your adjusted gross income must be less than $59,899 if filing as head of household or surviving spouse, or less than $66,819 if filing jointly.

The EITC is a refundable tax credit, which means if the credit amount exceeds your tax liability, you can receive the difference as a tax refund.

TurboTax's EITC assistant can help you determine your eligibility and estimate the amount of your potential credit.

Taxpayers can claim the EITC for up to 3 previous tax years if they were eligible but did not claim it at the time.

The EITC has been shown to lift millions of families out of poverty each year, with research indicating it has positive effects on child health and education outcomes.

Military members and those who receive disability benefits may still be eligible for the EITC, as long as they meet the other qualifying criteria.

The EITC is adjusted annually for inflation, ensuring its value keeps pace with the cost of living.

Taxpayers who use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number may still be able to claim the EITC for their qualifying children.

The EITC has bipartisan support in Congress, with both Republicans and Democrats supporting the credit as an effective way to provide tax relief to low-income workers.

TurboTax's EITC resources include educational videos, eligibility calculators, and step-by-step guidance to help taxpayers claim the credit correctly.

The EITC has been shown to encourage more single mothers to enter the workforce, as the credit increases with earned income up to a certain threshold.

Taxpayers who are self-employed or have side gigs may also be eligible for the EITC, as long as their net earnings from self-employment meet the income requirements.

The EITC is one of the largest anti-poverty programs in the United States, with over 25 million families and individuals claiming the credit each year.

TurboTax's EITC assistant can also help taxpayers determine if they are eligible for state-level EITC programs, which can provide additional financial assistance.

The EITC has been shown to have positive long-term effects on children's educational attainment and future earnings.

The EITC is not just for families with children; there is also a credit available for low-income workers without children, although the credit amount is smaller.

TurboTax's EITC resources are updated annually to reflect the latest changes in eligibility requirements and credit amounts.

The EITC has been praised by economists as an effective way to provide financial support to low-income workers while also encouraging employment and boosting economic activity.

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