Maine EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This is your practical, Maine‑specific playbook to claim every dollar you qualify for. It blends federal credits (like EITC and Child Tax Credit) with Maine credits (like the Maine EIC, Property Tax Fairness Credit, Sales Tax Fairness Credit, Dependent Exemption Tax Credit, Child Care Credit, and Student Loan Repayment Tax Credit). Every amount and rule below links to official sources and reflects the latest available figures for the 2024 and 2025 tax years.

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Quick help (start here)

• File a federal return and a Maine return even if your income is low. Refundable credits pay out even if you owe no tax. Use free tax prep through CA$H Maine or AARP Tax‑Aide.
• For tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025), the federal EITC is up to $7,830\ast \ast ;for2025(returnsfiledin2026),upto\ast \ast$8,046. Maine’s EIC adds 25% of your federal EITC (or 50% if you have no qualifying children). IRS EITC 2024 and 2025 amounts and Maine EIC rules. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov, maine.gov)
• Child Tax Credit for 2024 is up to $2,000\ast \ast perchild;upto\ast \ast$1,700 per child may be refundable (Additional CTC). For 2025, the refundable cap remains $1,700. IRS CTC. (irs.gov)
• Don’t expect your refund early if you claim EITC or ACTC. By law, the IRS holds these refunds until mid‑February; many hit bank accounts by the first week of March. Track with “Where’s My Refund?” IRS refund timing. (irs.gov)
• Maine‑only credits that single moms often miss: the Property Tax Fairness Credit (up to $1,000\ast \ast ifunderage65;upto\ast \ast$2,000 if 65+), Sales Tax Fairness Credit (base $125–$225 plus add‑ons; income‑based), Dependent Exemption Tax Credit ($300\ast \ast perchild;refundablestarting2024),\ast \ast ChildCareCredit\ast \ast (statematch\ast \ast 25$500), and the Student Loan Repayment Tax Credit (up to $2,500/year\ast \ast ,lifetime\ast \ast$25,000). Official pages are linked in each section. (maine.gov, legislature.maine.gov)
• Free help now: CA$H Maine (VITA) and AARP Tax‑Aide. Call 2‑1‑1 to find a nearby site or dial 1‑888‑227‑7669 (AARP). Use the IRS VITA Locator and Maine’s “Where’s My Refund.” (cashmaine.org, 211maine.org, press.aarp.org, irs.gov)

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What we checked in the top 10 search results (and what’s missing)

We reviewed the first‑page results for “Maine EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers,” including Maine Revenue Services’ credit pages and general help sites. Gaps we found: few step‑by‑steps for single parents; limited real‑world examples with exact dollar math; scattered state‑only credits; little about refund timelines, common mistakes, or “Plan B” options; and almost no office phone numbers or free‑filing contacts. This guide fills those gaps with official numbers, checklists, timelines, examples, and live contacts across Maine. (maine.gov)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

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The Earned Income Credits you can stack: Federal EITC + Maine EIC

First action to take

File your federal Form 1040 and claim the EITC; then file your Maine 1040ME and claim the Maine EIC on Schedule A. If you’re not sure you qualify, try the IRS EITC Assistant and ask a free VITA/CA$H Maine preparer to double‑check. IRS EITC page and Assistant • Maine EIC (official). (eitc.irs.gov, maine.gov)

• For tax year 2024 (returns you filed in 2025), the EITC tops out at: $7,830\ast \ast (3+kids),\ast \ast$6,960 (2), $4,213\ast \ast (1),\ast \ast$632 (no kids). Income limits vary by family size (example: HOH with 3+ kids must have income under $59,899). IRS 2024 limits. (eitc.irs.gov)
• For tax year 2025 (returns you’ll file in early 2026), the EITC max increases to: $8,046\ast \ast (3+),\ast \ast$7,152 (2), $4,328\ast \ast (1),\ast \ast$649 (no kids). IRS 2025 inflation adjustments and IRB 2024‑45. (irs.gov)
• Maine EIC = 25% of your federal EITC if you have qualifying children, and 50% if you have no qualifying children (age 18+ rules apply at the state level). Maine also allows ITIN filers to claim the Maine EIC if they were otherwise eligible for the federal EITC but used an ITIN. Maine EIC (official). (maine.gov)

What this means in dollars (TY 2024):

• With 2 kids and the maximum federal EITC $6,960\ast \ast ,yourMaineEICadds\ast \ast 25$1,740.
• With no kids and the maximum federal EITC $632\ast \ast ,yourMaineEICis\ast \ast 50$316.

These are refundable: if your tax is $0, you still get the credits as refunds (PATH Act timing rules apply for federal EITC/ACTC). IRS refund timing • Maine EIC refundability. (irs.gov, maine.gov)

Real‑world example (Bangor mom of two)

• HOH wages $32,000 in 2024, two kids ages 9 and 5, both with SSNs, lived with you over half the year.
• Estimated federal EITC falls in the 2‑child range (max $6,960; your exact amount depends on wages). Maine EIC adds 25% of your federal amount.
• If your federal EITC came to $5,500\ast \ast ,MaineEICwouldadd\ast \ast$1,375. Combined boost: $6,875 (not counting CTC and others below). IRS EITC ranges 2024 • Maine EIC. (eitc.irs.gov, maine.gov)

Eligibility reminders that trip people up

• You, your child, and (if filing jointly) your spouse must have valid SSNs by the filing deadline for the federal EITC; Maine EIC has an ITIN pathway for those otherwise eligible. IRS EITC rules; Publication 596 • Maine EIC ITIN allowance. (irs.gov, maine.gov)
• Investment income must be $11,600 or less for EITC (TY 2024). IRS 2024 EITC investment income limit. (irs.gov)

How to apply (free and fast)

• File electronically, choose direct deposit. Use CA$HMaine(VITA)ifyourhouseholdincomefits(typically\ast \ast$67,000** or less), or AARP Tax‑Aide. Call 2‑1‑1 to find a site; AARP Tax‑Aide: 1‑888‑227‑7669. Use the IRS VITA Locator. CA$H Maine • AARP Tax‑Aide • IRS free tax help. (cashmaine.org, press.aarp.org, irs.gov)

Reality check: refunds take time

By law, the IRS cannot issue refunds for returns claiming EITC/ACTC before mid‑February. Most direct‑deposit refunds land by early March if there are no issues. Track status only once a day with “Where’s My Refund?” IRS timing guidance. (irs.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid (EITC)

• Claiming the wrong filing status (you likely qualify as Head of Household if you paid more than half the household costs and your child lived with you over half the year).
• Claiming a child who did not live with you over half the year (school or medical records can help prove residency if asked).
• Missing or incorrect SSNs, names, or dates of birth that don’t match SSA records.
• Forgetting to add self‑employment income (e.g., app gigs) and allowable expenses; under‑ or over‑reporting can delay or deny the credit.
• Not filing at all because you “don’t owe” — you can’t get EITC without filing.
• If the IRS disallowed your EITC before, you must file Form 8862 to claim again. IRS “Who qualifies” and Pub. 596. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If your income is too high for EITC, you may still get the Child Tax Credit, Maine Dependent Exemption Tax Credit, Sales Tax Fairness Credit, or Property Tax Fairness Credit. Check those sections below.
• If the IRS adjusts or holds your refund, use “Where’s My Refund?,” open any IRS letter quickly, and consider the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you’re stuck. IRS WMR tool • TAS EITC page. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)

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Child Tax Credit (CTC) + Maine Dependent Exemption Tax Credit

First action to take

Claim the federal CTC/Additional CTC on Form 1040 + Schedule 8812. Then, on your Maine return, claim the separate Maine Dependent Exemption Tax Credit on Schedule A (it’s refundable for 2024 and after). IRS refundable credits • Maine Dependent Exemption Credit (official). (irs.gov, maine.gov)

• Federal CTC (2024): up to $2,000\ast \ast perchildunder17;refundableupto\ast \ast$1,700 (ACTC) per child if your tax is low. For 2025, the refundable portion remains $1,700\ast \ast .Incomephase‑outsstartat\ast \ast$200,000 single/HOH ($400,000 MFJ). IRS CTC/ACTC; IRB 2024‑45. (irs.gov)
• Maine Dependent Exemption Tax Credit: $300\ast \ast perchild/dependentyouclaimedforthefederalCTC.Nonrefundablebefore2024;refundableforMaineresidents/part‑yearresidentsstartingin2024;phasesoutatMaineAGIabove\ast \ast$200,000 (all other filers) / $400,000 (MFJ). Indexed for inflation after 2024. MRS dependent credit and statute §5219‑SS. (maine.gov, legislature.maine.gov)

Real‑world example

• Portland mom with one 6‑year‑old, 2024 wages $28,000\ast \ast .IfyourfederalCTCnets\ast \ast$2,000 with $1,700\ast \ast refundable,youalsoadd\ast \ast$300 from Maine’s Dependent Exemption Tax Credit, now refundable. Total from these two: $2,300 (plus any EITC and state EIC you also qualify for). IRS refundable CTC; MRS dependent credit • MRS Dependent Credit. (irs.gov, maine.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid (CTC)

• Claiming CTC for a child without a valid SSN issued by the due date (the child may still qualify you for the nonrefundable federal Credit for Other Dependents up to $500). IRS CTC key messages • IRS ODC tip. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• Missing Schedule 8812 or entering the wrong custody/residency information (keep school/medical records handy).
• Not coordinating with the other parent on who claims the child this year (if you alternate years, get Form 8332 signed where required).

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If you can’t claim the federal CTC, check Maine’s Dependent Exemption credit (it keys off the federal claim) and the Sales Tax Fairness Credit (you can’t be claimed as someone else’s dependent). See STFC below. MRS STFC page. (maine.gov)

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Child and Dependent Care Credits (daycare, after‑school, summer day camp)

First action to take

Save provider receipts and the provider’s EIN or SSN, then complete IRS Form 2441. On your Maine return, claim the state Child Care Credit on Schedule A. If your provider has a Maine “Quality Certificate,” your Maine credit doubles and may refund up to $500. IRS Pub. 503 • Maine §5218 & Quality Certificates • OCFS Quality Certificates. (irs.gov, legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)

• Federal credit (2024/2025): up to 35% of $3,000\ast \ast (1child)or\ast \ast$6,000 (2+) of eligible expenses; at higher incomes, it’s 20% (max $1,050\ast \ast or\ast \ast$2,100). Nonrefundable. IRS Pub. 503. (irs.gov)
• Maine Child Care Credit: 25% of your federal child/dependent care credit; doubled if you used a Quality Certificate provider; refundable up to $500. 36 M.R.S. §5218 • OCFS Quality Certificates (official). (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)

Real‑world example

• Lewiston mom with twins paid $7,200\ast \ast in2024toaQualityCertificatecenter.Federalcreditat20$1,200. Maine credit = 25% × $1,200\ast \ast =\ast \ast$300, doubled = $600\ast \ast ,butMainerefundsupto\ast \ast$500, so you get $500 back from Maine. Maine §5218; OCFS Quality Certificates • OCFS Quality Certificates. (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid (child care credits)

• Paying cash without collecting receipts or the provider’s EIN/SSN (you must report the provider on Form 2441).
• Claiming overnight camp (does not qualify); only day camp qualifies.
• Not checking if your provider has a Quality Certificate (this can double your Maine credit). The state lists eligible providers. OCFS Quality Certificates. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If costs are crushing your budget, apply for Maine’s Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP). Income expanded up to 125% of State Median Income as of 2024. Info and multi‑language flyers here. DHHS CCAP overview. (maine.gov)

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Maine Property Tax Fairness Credit (PTFC) and Sales Tax Fairness Credit (STFC)

First action to take

If you paid rent or property tax on your Maine home, file Form 1040ME with Schedule PTFC/STFC even if you don’t owe income tax. These are refundable. MRS PTFC & STFC pages. (maine.gov)

• PTFC basics: Refunds part of the property taxes or rent you paid on your primary Maine home (you must be a Maine resident and not file MFS). Caps: up to $1,000\ast \ast ifunder65;upto\ast \ast$2,000 if 65+ (effective for tax years beginning 2024 for older Mainers). Statute §5219‑KK (caps and rules); MRS PTFC • MRS PTFC summary. (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)
• STFC basics: Helps low‑income Mainers with sales tax burden. Base credit is $125\ast \ast (single)or\ast \ast$175 (joint/HOH), with add‑ons if you can claim children for the federal CTC (+$25\ast \ast or\ast \ast +$50 depending on count). Phases out with income (e.g., $10\ast \ast reductionper\ast \ast$500 over $20,000 for singles; different amounts for HOH and MFJ). Refundable. Statute §5213‑A; MRS STFC • MRS page. (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)

Real‑world example

• Augusta renter, HOH with two kids, Maine AGI $28,000\ast \ast ,paid\ast \ast$12,000 rent. You likely qualify for a PTFC refund (formula uses your income and rent/property tax). You also likely qualify for STFC (base $175\ast \ast +\ast \ast$50 add‑on for more than two qualifying children; phaseouts apply). File Schedule PTFC/STFC with 1040ME. MRS PTFC & STFC (official). (maine.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid (PTFC/STFC)

• Skipping the form because you “don’t owe tax.” These credits are refundable.
• Filing MFS — in most cases you’re not eligible.
• Forgetting rent/property tax proofs (lease, property tax bill, or municipal statement).

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If your property taxes or rent are still unaffordable, call 2‑1‑1 for local help (General Assistance, eviction prevention, LIHEAP, weatherization). 211 Maine. (211maine.org)

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Maine Student Loan Repayment Tax Credit (SLRTC)

First action to take

If you’re paying student loans and live and file in Maine, complete the SLRTC Worksheet and attach it to 1040ME. Keep proof of payments you made directly to the lender. MRS SLRTC + FAQ. (maine.gov)

• Refundable up to $2,500peryear\ast \ast ,lifetime\ast \ast$25,000 cap. You must have earned income at or above a threshold tied to minimum wage and be making eligible payments. MRS FAQ details and amounts. (maine.gov)

Real‑world example

• Biddeford single mother with an associate degree and $120\ast \ast /monthstudentloanpaymentsallyear(paiddirectlytothelender),earnedincome\ast \ast$33,000. If you meet the earned‑income threshold, you can claim up to $2,500 (limited by actual eligible payments). Keep transcripts and lender statements. MRS SLRTC FAQ. (maine.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid (SLRTC)

• Counting payments someone else made for you; only payments you made directly qualify.
• Forgetting to attach required proof (transcript, loan documentation, proof of payments).
• Confusing the old EOTC with SLRTC — use the current SLRTC rules (EOTC repealed after 2021). MRS EOTC note. (maine.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If SLRTC doesn’t fit, check the Saver’s Credit if you can contribute even a small amount to an IRA or workplace plan — up to $1,000\ast \ast back(nonrefundable)with2024AGIupto\ast \ast$38,250 (single)/$57,375 (HOH). IRS Saver’s Credit 2024 table. (irs.gov)

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Other credits single moms in Maine often overlook

• American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): up to $2,500\ast \ast perstudent;\ast \ast 40$1,000). First four years of post‑secondary; income limits apply; Form 8863. IRS AOTC • Pub. 970. (irs.gov)
• Lifetime Learning Credit: up to $2,000\ast \ast perreturn(20$10,000 expenses); nonrefundable but very flexible for part‑time or skills classes. IRS LLC • Pub. 970. (irs.gov)
• Adult Dependent Care Credit (Maine): 25% of eligible adult care expenses, refundable up to $500. MRS Adult Dependent Care Credit. (maine.gov)

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Filing free, getting help, and tracking refunds

• Free tax prep: CA$HMaine(VITA),AARPTax‑Aide,IRSFreeTaxPrepLocator.Call\ast \ast 2‑1‑1\ast \ast tofindyournearestCA$H coalition or dial 1‑888‑227‑7669 for AARP. CA$H Maine finder • AARP Tax‑Aide • IRS VITA/TCE. (cashmaine.org, press.aarp.org, irs.gov)
• File your Maine return online (free) via the Maine Tax Portal, then check “Where’s My Refund?” without creating an account. MRS forms (2024/2025) + MTP FAQ • MTP FAQ: Where’s My Refund?. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov)
• IRS Direct File expands in 2025; Maine is participating. Expect deeper integration with Maine’s portal by 2026. Maine DAFS announcement. (maine.gov)
• Maine Revenue Services contacts: Taxpayer Contact Center (207) 624‑9784; Income/Estate Tax Division (207) 626‑8475; general email taxpayerassist@maine.gov. Address: 51 Commerce Drive, Augusta (taxpayer service center). MRS contact page • Taxpayer Service Center info. (maine.gov)
• IRS in Maine (appointments required): general appointment line 844‑545‑5640; see IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers (Augusta, South Portland; Bangor has had changes). Use the IRS office locator. IRS office locator and TAC info via Rep. Pingree page and Waze listing for Augusta TAC. (pingree.house.gov)

Refund timelines (reality check)

• Federal: most e‑filed refunds arrive in < 21 days; EITC/ACTC refunds release after mid‑February, often first week of March if direct deposit and no issues. IRS timing • EITC/ACTC hold. (irs.gov)
• Maine: use the Maine Tax Portal “Where’s My Refund?” (status updates available without creating an account). MTP FAQ. (www1.maine.gov)

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Tables you can scan fast

A. 2024 federal EITC and Maine EIC at a glance

Sources: IRS 2024 EITC • Maine EIC. (eitc.irs.gov, maine.gov)

B. 2025 federal EITC maximums (for returns filed in 2026)

Source: IRS 2025 inflation adjustments. (irs.gov)

C. Maine credits many single moms can claim

Sources: PTFC • STFC • Dependent Exemption • Child Care Credit. (maine.gov, legislature.maine.gov)

D. Education & work credits that help parents

Sources: AOTC • LLC • Saver’s Credit (2024 limits). (irs.gov)

E. Refund timing guide (federal)

Source: IRS refund timing • EITC/ACTC hold. (irs.gov)

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Application checklist (bring these to your preparer or upload for remote VITA)

• Government photo ID for you (and spouse if applicable).
• Social Security numbers for you and your children (or ITINs where allowed by Maine EIC rules).
• W‑2s, 1099s (including gigs/contract work), and any 1095‑A (Health Insurance Marketplace).
• Proof your child lived with you over half the year (school, medical, childcare records).
• Child care provider’s legal name, EIN/SSN, address, and receipts.
• Rent/lease, property tax bills, or municipal statements for PTFC; total rent paid.
• Student loan statements showing payments you made directly to the lender (for SLRTC).
• Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit.
• Any IRS or MRS letters from prior years (especially about EITC/CTC or identity verification).

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Common mistakes to avoid (all credits)

• Filing status errors (HOH vs. Single) that cost you credits.
• Forgetting to file a Maine return — you can’t get Maine credits without it, even if your income is low.
• Missing child residency proof; the IRS and MRS can ask.
• Overlooking state‑only credits (PTFC, STFC, Dependent Exemption, Maine Child Care, SLRTC).
• Choosing high‑fee preparers or refund loans when free help is available.
• Ignoring IRS/MRS notices; waiting shrinks your options. Use the hotline numbers in the Help section.

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Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources in Maine

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: If your family structure changed this year (marriage, separation, adoption), confirm filing status and who claims each child before filing to avoid IRS rejects. Free help with complex status questions: CA$H Maine (call 2‑1‑1) and AARP Tax‑Aide 1‑888‑227‑7669. (211maine.org, press.aarp.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: Check the federal EITC disability rules (some disability benefits count as earned income; some don’t) and Maine’s Adult Dependent Care Credit (refundable up to $500). IRS EITC disability rules • MRS Adult Dependent Care Credit. (irs.gov, maine.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: EITC/CTC are available; non‑tax note — PTFC statute now has an additional PTFC provision for certain 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans (review carefully if it applies). PTFC statute. (legislature.maine.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Federal EITC requires SSNs, but Maine’s EIC allows ITIN filers who otherwise meet EITC rules (and age 18+ for childless). Ask a CA$H Maine preparer to review. Maine EIC (ITIN allowance). (maine.gov)
• Tribal citizens: Wabanaki CA$HoffersfreetaxclinicsacrossAroostook,Washington,andPenobscotcounties.Call\ast \ast (207)866‑6545\ast \ast forschedules.[WabanakiCA$H at Four Directions](https://fourdirectionsmaine.org/free-tax-prep/). (fourdirectionsmaine.org)
• Rural moms with limited internet: Use phone lines to book help. CA$H: dial 2‑1‑1. AARP Tax‑Aide: 1‑888‑227‑7669. Maine Revenue Services: (207) 624‑9784 (Taxpayer Contact Center). 211 Maine • AARP Tax‑Aide • MRS contact. (211maine.org, press.aarp.org, maine.gov)
• Single fathers: All credits above apply based on the same rules (custody, residency, income caps).
• Language access: CCAP has flyers in Arabic, French, Kinyarwanda, Lingala, Portuguese, Spanish, Swahili. Ask VITA/AARP for interpreters. DHHS CCAP language flyers. (maine.gov)

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Resources by region (statewide and local)

• CA$HMainecoalitions:AroostookCounty,GreaterPortland,CentralMaine,EasternMaine,Lewiston/Auburn,Midcoast,WabanakiCA$H, Western Maine, York County. Use the statewide locator or call 2‑1‑1. CA$H Maine locations. (cashmaine.org)
• Wabanaki CA$H(tribalcommunities):call\ast \ast (207)866‑6545\ast \ast .[FourDirections/WabanakiCA$H](https://fourdirectionsmaine.org/free-tax-prep/). (fourdirectionsmaine.org)
• AARP Tax‑Aide: 1‑888‑227‑7669 and online site finder. AARP Tax‑Aide. (press.aarp.org)
• Maine Revenue Services: Taxpayer Contact Center (207) 624‑9784; Income/Estate Tax (207) 626‑8475; “Where’s My Refund?” at the Maine Tax Portal. MRS contact + MTP FAQ • MTP FAQ. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov)
• Maine Equal Justice (benefits navigation & legal information; not tax prep): guides and help connecting to TANF, GA, housing, etc. Maine Equal Justice. (maineequaljustice.org)
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance (civil legal help; tax tips and referrals): PTLA Tax Tips. (ptla.org)
• 211 Maine (find help statewide): dial 2‑1‑1 or text your ZIP to 898‑211. 211 Maine contact. (211maine.org)

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What to do if your return gets flagged or your refund is delayed

• Watch for IRS letter (e.g., identity verification or dependent questions). Respond by the date in the letter.
• If your prior EITC/CTC was denied, include Form 8862 to reclaim in a future year. Keep residency proof.
• If you’re stuck, call the IRS appointment line 844‑545‑5640 for TAC help, or contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service. IRS TAC locator; TAS • TAS EITC page. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)

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“What if this doesn’t work?” — backup options by situation

• Can’t reach a free tax site? Use IRS Direct File (where available) or the Maine Tax Portal to file your state return online; ask 211 for local help to scan/upload documents for remote VITA. Maine DAFS on Direct File • MTP overview. (maine.gov)
• Owe a state balance? Request a payment plan via compliance.tax@maine.gov or call (207) 624‑9595. MRS Individual Income Tax FAQ. (www1.maine.gov)
• Refund taken for debts (child support, student loans): the MRS notice lists the agency and phone to call; any remainder usually issues in 4–6 weeks. MRS FAQ. (maine.gov)

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10 Maine‑specific FAQs

1. Can I get the Maine EIC if I used an ITIN on my federal return?
   Yes, if you were otherwise eligible for the federal EITC (except for the SSN rule), Maine allows ITIN filers to claim the Maine EIC. Age 18+ applies for filers without children. Maine EIC (official). (maine.gov)
2. I share custody. Who gets to claim EITC and CTC?
   EITC follows the child’s residency (lived with you over half the year). The federal CTC usually goes to the parent who can claim the child as a dependent (Form 8332 may shift the dependency claim in some arrangements). IRS Pub. 596; CTC key messages. (irs.gov)
3. How much is the Maine Dependent Exemption Tax Credit?
   $300\ast \ast perchild/dependent;refundablefortaxyearsbeginning\ast \ast 2024\ast \ast andafter;phase‑outstartsat\ast \ast$200k (others)/$400k (MFJ). Indexed after 2024. MRS Dependent Credit. (maine.gov)
4. What if I’m 65+ and rent?
   You may qualify for PTFC up to $2,000 max (for tax years beginning 2024). File Schedule PTFC/STFC with 1040ME. PTFC statute. (legislature.maine.gov)
5. Is Maine’s Child Care Credit refundable?
   Yes, up to $500 may be refunded, and the credit doubles if you used a Quality Certificate provider. §5218 + Quality Certificates • OCFS Quality Certificates. (legislature.maine.gov, maine.gov)
6. How do I check my Maine refund?
   Go to the Maine Tax Portal and click “Where’s My Refund?” — no login needed. MTP FAQ. (www1.maine.gov)
7. When will my EITC refund come?
   The IRS holds EITC/ACTC refunds until mid‑February; most arrive first week of March if direct deposit and no issues. IRS refund timing. (irs.gov)
8. What’s the income limit for the Saver’s Credit (2024)?
   Up to $38,250\ast \ast (single),\ast \ast$57,375 (HOH), $76,500\ast \ast (MFJ).Maxcredit\ast \ast$1,000 ($2,000 MFJ). IRS Saver’s Credit. (irs.gov)
9. Can I still get help if I’m outside bigger cities?
   Yes. Call 2‑1‑1 to book CA$HMaineorAARPTax‑Aidenearyou;WabanakiCA$H serves tribal communities (call (207) 866‑6545). 211 Maine • Wabanaki CA$H. (211maine.org, fourdirectionsmaine.org)
10. Is there a way to file free with the IRS directly?
    Yes. The IRS Direct File program expands in 2025 and Maine is participating; full state integration targeted for 2026. Maine DAFS announcement. (maine.gov)

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If you only have 30 minutes: do these 5 things

• Gather SSNs/ITINs, W‑2s/1099s, rent/property tax proofs, daycare receipts (with EIN), bank account details.
• Use a free preparer (CA$H/AARP). Book by phone today: 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑227‑7669.
• Claim: federal EITC, CTC/ACTC, and Maine EIC; then add PTFC/STFC and Dependent Exemption.
• If you paid for child care, complete Form 2441 and claim Maine’s Child Care Credit (double if Quality Certificate).
• Track refunds with IRS and MTP tools; expect EITC/ACTC refunds after mid‑February.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Maine Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Program rules and amounts change. Always confirm current amounts and forms on the official sites linked above.
• Security: Use only secure, trusted networks to upload tax documents; never email full SSNs. Use two‑factor authentication on the Maine Tax Portal and any tax software. MTP security notes. (www1.maine.gov)
• This guide is informational and not legal or tax advice. For personalized advice, consult a qualified tax professional or contact Maine Revenue Services at (207) 624‑9784 or (207) 626‑8475. MRS contact. (maine.gov)

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If you need quick, live help finding a free tax site or other support (rent, utilities, childcare), dial 2‑1‑1 or text your ZIP to 898‑211. 211 Maine. (211maine.org)

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🏛️More Maine Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maine

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery