EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Colorado
Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel
Colorado EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is the one place to get the latest, verified numbers and step‑by‑step help to actually claim what you’re owed in Colorado. We focus on the credits that put cash back in your pocket: the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Colorado EITC, the Colorado Child Tax Credit, the new Family Affordability Tax Credit, and the Child & Dependent Care credits (federal and Colorado).
Quick help (read this first)
- File a tax return even if your income is low and you’re not “required” to file. That’s the only way to get EITC, Child Tax Credit (CTC), and Colorado credits. Federal refunds with EITC/ACTC are held until mid‑February by law, then paid once your return clears. (irs.gov)
- 2024 federal EITC max (filed in 2025): up to 7,830∗∗with3+kids;∗∗7,830** with 3+ kids; **6,960 with 2; 4,213∗∗with1;∗∗4,213** with 1; **632 with none. Income limits apply. Investment income must be $11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov)
- 2025 federal EITC max (filed in 2026): up to $8,046 with 3+ kids (inflation bump). (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Colorado EITC: 50% of your federal EITC for 2023, 2024, and 2025 (refund if bigger than your tax). ITIN filers can qualify using form DR 0104TN. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Family Affordability Tax Credit (new for 2024): up to 3,200∗∗perchildunder6and∗∗3,200** per child under 6 and **2,400 per child ages 6–16 (amount slides with AGI). For 2025, maxima rise slightly to 3,273∗∗and∗∗3,273** and **2,455. Kids under 6 can also qualify for the separate Colorado Child Tax Credit. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Child Tax Credit (separate from federal): for kids under 6; 1,200/1,200/600/200∗∗perchilddependingonincome(singlefilerAGIupto∗∗200** per child depending on income (single filer AGI up to **75,000; joint up to $85,000). Refundable. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Free filing help: Dial 2‑1‑1 statewide or (866) 760‑6489 to book a VITA/TCE appointment or get live help; Spanish available. (211colorado.org)
- Colorado filing deadline for 2024 returns: April 15, 2025 (automatic extension to October 15, 2025 to file—not to pay). Colorado DOR helpline (303) 238‑7378. (tax.colorado.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Credit | Who qualifies (high level) | 2024 amount (filed 2025) | 2025 amount (filed 2026) | How to claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC | Earned income under set limits; investment income ≤ $11,600 | Max $7,830 (3+ kids) | Max $8,046 (3+ kids) | Form 1040 + (if you have kids) Schedule EIC; e‑file recommended. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) |
| Colorado EITC | CO resident; usually must claim federal EITC; ITIN filers may qualify via DR 0104TN | 50% of federal EITC | 50% of federal EITC | DR 0104 + DR 0104CR (+ DR 0104TN if ITIN/under‑25 no‑kid exception). (tax.colorado.gov) |
| Family Affordability Tax Credit (CO, 2024+) | CO resident; child under 17; AGI ≤ 85,000∗∗single/∗∗85,000** single / **95,000 joint | Up to 3,200∗∗(<6)/∗∗3,200** (<6) / **2,400 (6–16) per child | Max 3,273∗∗/∗∗3,273** / **2,455 | DR 0104 + DR 0104CR + DR 0104CN. (tax.colorado.gov) |
| Colorado Child Tax Credit (regular) | CO resident; child under 6; AGI ≤ 75,000∗∗single/∗∗75,000** single / **85,000 joint | 1,200/1,200/600/$200 per child (tiered by AGI) | Inflation‑adjusted limits/tiers for 2025 | DR 0104 + DR 0104CR + DR 0104CN. (tax.colorado.gov) |
| Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit | Work‑related care for child <13 or disabled dependent | Up to 35% of 3,000∗∗(1child)or∗∗3,000** (1 child) or **6,000 (2+), sliding to 20% at AGI ≥ $43,000 (nonrefundable) | Same | Form 2441 with your 1040. (irs.gov) |
| Colorado Child & Dependent Care Expenses Credit | CO resident; AGI ≤ $60,000; equals 50% of federal CDCC (refundable) | 50% of your federal CDCC | Same | DR 0104 + DR 0104CR + DR 0347. (tax.colorado.gov) |
What’s new (and what changed) for 2024–2025
- Colorado’s Family Affordability Tax Credit started in 2024. It’s separate from the regular Colorado Child Tax Credit and covers kids through age 16; children under 6 may qualify for both. Amounts are fixed by AGI bands and are refundable. (tax.colorado.gov)
- The Colorado EITC is a big deal now—still set at 50% of your federal EITC for 2023, 2024, and 2025 (drops to 25% in 2026 under current law). ITIN filers can claim the state EITC using DR 0104TN. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Federal EITC and CTC stayed in their “post‑pandemic” form. For 2024, the EITC income limits and maximums increased with inflation; for 2025, the max EITC with 3+ children increases to 8,046∗∗.TheAdditionalCTC(therefundablepart)capsat∗∗8,046**. The Additional CTC (the refundable part) caps at **1,700 per child for 2024 (same cap currently applying in 2025). (eitc.irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, irs.gov)
The Earned Income Tax Credit (federal) + Colorado EITC
First action: file and claim—even if you made very little
- If you’re eligible, you must file a federal return to get the EITC, and a Colorado return to get the Colorado EITC. If you claim EITC or the refundable Child Tax Credit, expect the IRS to hold refunds until mid‑February to verify your return; you can track it with Where’s My Refund. (irs.gov)
Who qualifies and how much
- 2024 federal EITC income limits (single or head of household): up to 49,084∗∗(1child),∗∗49,084** (1 child), **55,768 (2 children), 59,899∗∗(3+children);withnochildren:∗∗59,899** (3+ children); with no children: **18,591. Max credit ranges: 4,213∗∗(1child),∗∗4,213** (1 child), **6,960 (2), 7,830∗∗(3+),∗∗7,830** (3+), **632 (no kids). Investment income must be $11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov)
- 2025 federal EITC: max increases to $8,046 for 3+ children (other amounts adjust with inflation). (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Colorado EITC equals 50% of your federal EITC for tax years 2023–2025 and is refundable. Part‑year residents apportion it. ITIN filers and certain younger workers without a qualifying child can qualify under Colorado’s rules using DR 0104TN. Colorado EITC does not count as income or resources when agencies decide eligibility for public assistance. (tax.colorado.gov)
How to claim (federal + Colorado)
- Federal: File Form 1040 and attach Schedule EIC if you’re claiming children. Use the IRS EITC Qualification Assistant if you’re unsure. (irs.gov)
- Colorado: File DR 0104 (state return) + DR 0104CR (Individual Credit Schedule). If you (or a child) don’t have an SSN or you’re eligible under the under‑25 exception, include DR 0104TN. (tax.colorado.gov)
If you use an ITIN
- You cannot claim the federal EITC without SSNs; however, Colorado lets you claim the state EITC using DR 0104TN based on the federal amount you would have qualified for if SSNs were present. If you need an ITIN, you can apply with Form W‑7; call 844‑545‑5640 for an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center appointment. Expect 7–11 weeks for processing in peak season. (tax.colorado.gov, irs.gov)
Documents you’ll need
- W‑2s, 1099s, self‑employment income records, child SSNs (for federal EITC with kids), proof of residency for children if asked, and your bank info for direct deposit. See IRS Publication 596 for rules. (irs.gov)
Real‑world examples
- Example A (max credit): You’re head of household with two kids and earned 17,400∗∗in2024.YourfederalEITChitsthemax(∗∗17,400** in 2024. Your federal EITC hits the max (**6,960). Your Colorado EITC is 50% of that = 3,480∗∗.TotalEITCcash:∗∗3,480**. Total EITC cash: **10,440. (eitc.irs.gov, tax.colorado.gov)
- Example B (three kids): At 2024 income that yields a max federal EITC (7,830∗∗),yourColoradoEITCis∗∗7,830**), your Colorado EITC is **3,915, for $11,745 combined. (eitc.irs.gov, tax.colorado.gov)
Timeline and refund expectations
- Returns with EITC/ACTC are issued no earlier than mid‑February; most refunds arrive in less than 21 days after the IRS approves the return. Track at the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool or the IRS2Go app. (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Claiming a child who doesn’t meet the relationship, age, or residency test.
- Using the wrong filing status (many single moms should file Head of Household).
- Missing or incorrect SSNs for you, your child, or your spouse (federal EITC requires valid SSNs).
- Investment income over $11,600 disqualifies you for 2024. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If the IRS disallowed EITC in a prior year, you may need to file Form 8862 before claiming again—follow the instructions in your notice. If you missed a year, you can file and claim a refund generally within 3 years of when you filed the original return (or 2 years from payment). (irs.gov)
Colorado Child Tax Credit (under 6) and the Family Affordability Tax Credit (under 17)
First action: check the age/AGI rules and file DR 0104CN with your state return
- For 2024: You can claim the Family Affordability Tax Credit for each child under 17 if your AGI is ≤ 85,000∗∗(single)or∗∗85,000** (single) or **95,000 (joint). Children under 6 may also qualify for the separate Colorado Child Tax Credit. Both credits are refundable. (tax.colorado.gov)
Who qualifies and how much (2024)
- Family Affordability Tax Credit (per child): for single filers, 3,200∗∗atAGI∗∗≤3,200** at AGI **≤ 15,000 (under 6) and 2,400∗∗(6–16),steppingdowninsetincomebandsuntilitphasesoutafter∗∗2,400** (6–16), stepping down in set income bands until it phases out after **85,000. Joint filers have the same amounts but higher band start and a phase‑out after 95,000∗∗.For2025,maximariseto∗∗95,000**. For 2025, maxima rise to **3,273 (under 6) and $2,455 (6–16). (tax.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Child Tax Credit (regular): for children under 6, single filers get 1,200∗∗perchildatAGI∗∗≤1,200** per child at AGI **≤ 25,000, 600∗∗at∗∗600** at **25,001–50,000∗∗,and∗∗50,000**, and **200 at 50,001–50,001–75,000 (joint filers: thresholds are ≤ 35,000∗∗,∗∗35,000**, **35,001–60,000∗∗,∗∗60,000**, **60,001–$85,000). Children do not need an SSN to qualify for the Colorado child credit. (tax.colorado.gov)
Can you stack the two Colorado child credits?
- Yes. The state confirms that children age 5 and younger may qualify for both the Family Affordability Tax Credit and the regular Colorado Child Tax Credit in the same year (amounts calculated separately on DR 0104CN). (tax.colorado.gov)
How to claim
- File your Colorado return (DR 0104) and include DR 0104CR (credit schedule) and DR 0104CN (child tax credits calculator). Part‑year residents apportion the credits. (tax.colorado.gov)
Quick amounts snapshot (single filers, 2024)
| AGI (single) | Under 6 – Family Affordability | Ages 6–16 – Family Affordability | Under 6 – Regular CO CTC |
|---|---|---|---|
| ≤ $15,000 | $3,200 | $2,400 | — |
| $25,000 or less | — | — | $1,200 |
| 25,001–25,001–30,000 | $2,540 | $1,905 | $600 |
| 40,001–40,001–45,000 | $1,880 | $1,410 | $600 |
| 60,001–60,001–65,000 | $1,000 | $750 | $200 |
| 75,001–75,001–80,000 | $340 | $255 | — |
| 80,001–80,001–85,000 | $120 | $90 | — |
Amounts are per child. Joint filer bands are the same amounts with higher AGI thresholds. Use the state’s CTC/Family Affordability Assistant or DR 0104CN for precise amounts. (tax.colorado.gov)
Real‑world examples
- Example C: You’re single, AGI 32,500∗∗,twokidsages7and4.Forthe7‑year‑old,FamilyAffordabilityamountis∗∗32,500**, two kids ages 7 and 4. For the 7‑year‑old, Family Affordability amount is **1,740 (AGI band 30,001–30,001–35,000). For the 4‑year‑old, Family Affordability is 2,320∗∗plustheregularCOCTC∗∗2,320** plus the regular CO CTC **600 (AGI band 25,001–25,001–50,000). Total state child credits: $4,660. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Example D (ITIN family): You file with an ITIN and your child has an ITIN only. You can still claim the Colorado Child Tax Credit and Family Affordability credit (child does not need an SSN for Colorado credits). Federal CTC requires child SSNs; see Schedule 8812 rules. (tax.colorado.gov, irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting DR 0104CN when claiming Colorado child credits.
- Assuming a child needs an SSN for the Colorado credits (not required). (tax.colorado.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your income or child’s age puts you just over a band, double‑check that AGI on line 11 of your federal 1040 matches what you used on DR 0104CN. If you still can’t get it to compute, call the Colorado DOR tax help line (303) 238‑7378 and ask for assistance with DR 0104CN—and/or get free help via 2‑1‑1 to book a VITA site. (tax.colorado.gov, 211colorado.org)
Federal Child Tax Credit and Additional CTC (refund up to $1,700 per child for 2024)
- For 2024, the federal Child Tax Credit is up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchildunder17.TherefundableAdditionalCTC(ACTC)capsat∗∗2,000** per qualifying child under 17. The refundable Additional CTC (ACTC) caps at **1,700 per child. You must file Schedule 8812 with your 1040. Refunds that include ACTC are held until mid‑February. Kids must have SSNs valid for employment. (irs.gov)
Plan B
- If you’re denied this credit due to paperwork issues (e.g., SSN timing), read the notice and, if required, file Form 8862 in a later year. The IRS explains when ACTC isn’t counted as income for federal benefits and is ignored as a resource for at least 12 months—ask your county office if you’re on SNAP/TANF/Medicaid. (irs.gov)
Child & Dependent Care Credits (help with daycare, after‑school, day camps)
First action: collect provider info and receipts
- Federal CDCC: For work‑related care so you can work or look for work, claim up to 35% of 3,000∗∗inexpensesforonechildor∗∗3,000** in expenses for one child or **6,000 for two or more; the percentage slides down to 20% for AGI ≥ $43,000 (credit is nonrefundable). You must list the provider’s name, address, and SSN/EIN. Use Form 2441. (irs.gov)
- Colorado Child & Dependent Care Expenses Credit: Refundable credit equal to 50% of your federal CDCC; AGI must be ≤ $60,000. File DR 0347 with DR 0104 and DR 0104CR. (tax.colorado.gov)
Example
- You earned 28,000∗∗,paid∗∗28,000**, paid **3,000 for after‑school care for one child. Federal CDCC rate at that AGI is 27%, so your federal credit is 810∗∗;Coloradocreditis∗∗50810**; Colorado credit is **50%** of that = **405. Total $1,215 back. (irs.gov, tax.colorado.gov)
Common mistakes
- Not listing the provider’s SSN/EIN or address.
- Claiming overnight camp (doesn’t qualify). (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If you had little or no federal tax and can’t claim the federal credit, Colorado offers a Low‑Income Child Care Expenses Credit for AGI ≤ 25,000∗∗:∗∗2525,000**: **25%** of eligible expenses up to **500 (one child) / $1,000 (two+). File the state form as directed. (tax.colorado.gov)
Step‑by‑step filing game plan (simple and fast)
- Gather docs: W‑2s/1099s, Social Security cards (or ITINs), childcare receipts and provider info, direct‑deposit details.
- Use free help: Call 2‑1‑1 or (866) 760‑6489 to schedule a VITA/TCE appointment near you or get remote filing help if you have a smartphone. Spanish help available. (211colorado.org)
- File federal first (e‑file): Claim EITC/CTC/Child Care credits (Schedule EIC, Schedule 8812, Form 2441).
- Then file Colorado: Claim state EITC (DR 0104CR; add DR 0104TN if ITIN/under‑25 special rules), and Colorado child credits (DR 0104CN). For Colorado child care credits, add DR 0347. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Track refunds: Use IRS Where’s My Refund and Revenue Online for Colorado. The IRS can’t release EITC/ACTC refunds until mid‑February. (irs.gov)
Deadlines, extensions, and payment plans (reality check)
- Colorado deadline for 2024 returns: April 15, 2025. Automatic extension to October 15, 2025 to file, but you must pay at least 90% of tax due by April 15 to avoid penalties. Use DR 0158‑I if sending an extension payment. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Owe tax? Set up a Colorado payment plan after you receive a bill, or call (303) 205‑8291 if you need to set one up for the current year after April 15. No setup fees, but penalty/interest accrues. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Federal payment plans (if you owe): You can usually apply online; low‑income filers may qualify for reduced fees. IRS help line 800‑829‑1040. (irs.gov)
Local, free Colorado help (by phone and in person)
- Mile High United Way/2‑1‑1 Colorado: Dial 2‑1‑1 or (866) 760‑6489; text your ZIP to 898‑211; multilingual help, statewide VITA site list and virtual filing options. (211colorado.org)
- Get Ahead Colorado (statewide hub for free filing and credits info). (getaheadcolorado.org)
- Denver Asset Building Coalition (year‑round tax help, LITC services): (303) 388‑7030; Denver office, limited appointments after main season. (denverabc.org)
- Pikes Peak United Way (Colorado Springs & Monument VITA): Call 2‑1‑1 for appointments; main office (719) 632‑1543; alternate (866) 488‑9742. (ppunitedway.org)
- Boulder Public Library Tax Help (Tax Help Colorado/AARP sessions during season): (303) 441‑3100. (boulderlibrary.org)
- Colorado DOR taxpayer helpline: (303) 238‑7378 (translation available). (tax.colorado.gov)
- Military families: Free MilTax software and expert help 24/7 at 800‑342‑9647 (Military OneSource). (militaryonesource.mil)
Diverse communities: practical notes and targeted resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: If you face name/gender marker mismatches on tax IDs, VITA/TCE sites can help you file correctly and avoid refund delays. Use 2‑1‑1 to locate an affirming site. (211colorado.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: The federal Dependent Care Credit covers work‑related care for a spouse/dependent who cannot self‑care (no age limit); Colorado gives you 50% of the federal amount if AGI ≤ $60,000. Keep provider info and receipts. PEAK Parent Center (statewide parent training and support): (719) 531‑9400. (tax.colorado.gov, peakparent.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Use Military OneSource MilTax for free state/federal filing and advice about combat pay, multiple states, etc. 800‑342‑9647. (militaryonesource.mil)
- Immigrant/refugee moms and ITIN filers: You may qualify for Colorado EITC (via DR 0104TN), the Colorado Child Tax Credit, and the Family Affordability credit even if your child lacks an SSN. To apply for or renew an ITIN, use Form W‑7; IRS TAC appointments: 844‑545‑5640. Centro San Juan Diego in Denver offers bilingual tax help during season: (303) 295‑9470. (tax.colorado.gov, irs.gov, ccdenver.org)
- Tribal families: Contact your tribal administration for local support and benefit coordination. Ute Mountain Ute main line (970) 565‑3751; Southern Ute main (970) 563‑0100. (ccia.colorado.gov)
- Rural single moms: Remote filing is available—use smartphone upload via GetYourRefund (accessed through Get Ahead Colorado) or call 2‑1‑1 to find the nearest VITA/TCE pop‑up. (getaheadcolorado.org)
- Single fathers and caretakers: All credits here are gender‑neutral—if your child lived with you over half the year and you meet the tests, you can claim them. See IRS Pub 596/501 for dependent and residency rules. (irs.gov)
- Language access: The Colorado DOR helpline offers translation on request; 2‑1‑1 also supports multiple languages. (tax.colorado.gov, 211colorado.org)
Application checklist (fast)
- Photo ID(s); SSNs/ITINs for you and kids; birth dates.
- W‑2s/1099s; self‑employment income/expense log.
- Childcare provider name, address, SSN/EIN, and receipts.
- Bank routing + account number (direct deposit speeds refunds).
- Prior‑year return (helpful but not required).
- If using ITIN: completed Form W‑7 package and required documents (TAC appointment if possible). (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (we see these every year)
- Waiting because “I’m not required to file.” If you don’t file, you don’t get credits.
- Choosing Single instead of Head of Household when you qualify—costly error.
- Missing a child’s SSN for federal CTC/EITC or forgetting DR 0104CN on your Colorado return.
- Not tracking self‑employment income/expenses (gig work counts). Wrong numbers can delay or deny EITC.
- Forgetting the provider’s SSN/EIN on Form 2441 for the child care credit. (irs.gov)
Realistic timelines
- Federal EITC/ACTC refunds: no earlier than mid‑February; most direct deposits hit within about 21 days after approval. Check daily (updates are once overnight). (irs.gov)
- Amending/claiming past‑year refunds: typically you have 3 years from the date you filed the original return (or 2 years from payment, if later). (irs.gov)
10 Colorado‑specific FAQs
- Q1: Do I have to be a Colorado resident to claim the Colorado EITC or child credits?
A: Yes; full‑year or part‑year residents qualify (part‑year credits are apportioned). (tax.colorado.gov) - Q2: What’s the Colorado EITC percentage right now?
A: 50% of your federal EITC for 2023, 2024, and 2025 (refund of the excess). It’s scheduled to drop to 25% in 2026. (tax.colorado.gov) - Q3: Can I get Colorado EITC with an ITIN?
A: Yes—use DR 0104TN to compute the amount you’d get if SSNs were present. (tax.colorado.gov) - Q4: My child doesn’t have an SSN. Can I still get Colorado child credits?
A: Yes. Colorado’s child credits don’t require the child to have an SSN. (tax.colorado.gov) - Q5: Can I get both the Family Affordability Tax Credit and the regular Colorado Child Tax Credit for my 4‑year‑old?
A: Yes, both may apply to under‑6 children; amounts are calculated separately on DR 0104CN. (tax.colorado.gov) - Q6: What are the 2024 federal EITC income limits for a single mom?
A: Up to 49,084∗∗(1child),∗∗49,084** (1 child), **55,768 (2), 59,899∗∗(3+).Nokids:∗∗59,899** (3+). No kids: **18,591. (eitc.irs.gov) - Q7: How big can the Family Affordability credit be?
A: In 2024, up to 3,200∗∗perchildunder6and∗∗3,200** per child under 6 and **2,400 per child ages 6–16 (amounts slide by AGI). In 2025, maxima rise to 3,273∗∗and∗∗3,273** and **2,455. (tax.colorado.gov) - Q8: What if my refund is taking too long?
A: For federal: use Where’s My Refund and remember EITC/ACTC refunds can’t be issued before mid‑February. For state: check Revenue Online or call (303) 238‑7378. (irs.gov) - Q9: I missed filing last year—can I still get EITC?
A: Generally yes, if you file within 3 years of filing the original return (or 2 years from paying tax). (irs.gov) - Q10: Do these credits count against my benefits?
A: Colorado says its EITC isn’t treated as income or resources for public assistance. For federal ACTC, IRS notes refunds aren’t counted as income and are disregarded as a resource for at least 12 months for federally funded programs—confirm with your county caseworker. (tax.colorado.gov, irs.gov)
Tables you can scan fast
Federal EITC: 2024 income limits and max credit (filed in 2025)
| Qualifying children | Single/HOH income must be less than | Married filing jointly income must be less than | Credit range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $18,591 | $25,511 | 2∗∗to∗∗2** to **632 |
| 1 | $49,084 | $56,004 | 9∗∗to∗∗9** to **4,213 |
| 2 | $55,768 | $62,688 | 10∗∗to∗∗10** to **6,960 |
| 3+ | $59,899 | $66,819 | 11∗∗to∗∗11** to **7,830 |
Investment income limit: $11,600. (eitc.irs.gov)
Colorado EITC at a glance
| Tax year | % of federal EITC | Refundable? | ITIN filers? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 50% | Yes | Yes (DR 0104TN) |
| 2024 | 50% | Yes | Yes (DR 0104TN) |
| 2025 | 50% | Yes | Yes (DR 0104TN) |
| 2026+ | 25% (scheduled) | Yes | Yes |
Colorado Child Tax Credit (regular, kids under 6) — 2024 amounts
| Filing status | AGI | Credit per child |
|---|---|---|
| Single/HOH | ≤ $25,000 | $1,200 |
| Single/HOH | 25,001–25,001–50,000 | $600 |
| Single/HOH | 50,001–50,001–75,000 | $200 |
| Joint | ≤ $35,000 | $1,200 |
| Joint | 35,001–35,001–60,000 | $600 |
| Joint | 60,001–60,001–85,000 | $200 |
Children do not need SSNs for the Colorado child credit. (tax.colorado.gov)
Family Affordability Tax Credit (selected 2024 bands; single filers)
| AGI (single) | Under 6 | Ages 6–16 |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ $15,000 | $3,200 | $2,400 |
| 20,001–20,001–25,000 | $2,760 | $2,070 |
| 30,001–30,001–35,000 | $2,320 | $1,740 |
| 40,001–40,001–45,000 | $1,880 | $1,410 |
| 55,001–55,001–60,000 | $1,220 | $915 |
| 70,001–70,001–75,000 | $560 | $420 |
| 80,001–80,001–85,000 | $120 | $90 |
Use the state Assistant or DR 0104CN for the full table and exact amounts (joint filers use higher AGI bands). (tax.colorado.gov)
Child & Dependent Care Credits (federal + Colorado)
| Program | Max eligible expenses | % range | Income note | Refundable? | State piggyback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal CDCC | 3,000∗∗(1child),∗∗3,000** (1 child), **6,000 (2+) | 35% → 20% | % slides down to 20% at AGI ≥ $43,000 | No | — |
| Colorado CDCC | — | 50% of your federal CDCC | AGI ≤ $60,000 | Yes | DR 0347 |
Reality checks, warnings, and tips
- Be cautious with gig/self‑employment income. The EITC is generous, but the IRS reviews self‑employment returns closely. Keep simple logs of income and expenses and report all income.
- Refund timing: claiming EITC/ACTC means a built‑in delay; don’t count on the money earlier than late February. (irs.gov)
- Keep your documents for at least three years (statute of limitations). (irs.gov)
What to do if you hit a snag
- Get free in‑person help (VITA/TCE): Dial 2‑1‑1 or (866) 760‑6489 to book statewide. If your situation is more complex or you get an IRS notice, ask about Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinics (e.g., Denver Asset Building Coalition LITC: (303) 388‑7030). (211colorado.org, denverabc.org)
- For ITIN issues, call 844‑545‑5640 to book an IRS appointment to verify identity and documents without mailing originals. (irs.gov)
Quick Reference: who to call and where
- Colorado DOR taxpayer helpline: (303) 238‑7378 (Mon–Fri). (tax.colorado.gov)
- 2‑1‑1 statewide help: 2‑1‑1 or (866) 760‑6489 (text ZIP to 898‑211). (211colorado.org)
- IRS general help: 800‑829‑1040; “Where’s My Refund?” tool for refund status. (irs.gov)
- Military OneSource MilTax: 800‑342‑9647. (militaryonesource.mil)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Colorado 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.
Editorial policy and methodology: see our Editorial Policy.
Disclaimer
- Numbers and eligibility rules change. Always verify the latest details with the IRS, the Colorado Department of Revenue, or a qualified tax preparer.
- Security: never email or text your SSN/ITIN or full tax documents. Use trusted portals (IRS, Revenue Online) or VITA/TCE services. Keep your device updated and use strong passwords.
- This guide is information, not legal or tax advice. If you get an IRS or state notice, respond by the deadline printed on that letter.
Deadlines cited: April 15, 2025 (filing/payment), October 15, 2025 (extension to file). (tax.colorado.gov)
Sources (key official references used above)
- IRS Publication 596 and EITC income limits/amounts (2024); PATH Act refund timing; Where’s My Refund. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
- IRS 2025 EITC maximum (Taxpayer Advocate Service). (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Colorado EITC (percentages; ITIN and under‑25 provisions; refundability; not income for assistance). (tax.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Family Affordability Tax Credit (2024 tables; 2025 inflation note). (tax.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Child Tax Credit (eligibility; amounts/AGI tiers; child SSN not required). (tax.colorado.gov)
- Colorado Child & Dependent Care Expenses Credit and Low‑Income Child Care Expenses Credit (rules and forms). (tax.colorado.gov)
- Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit (Publication 503; Form 2441 instructions). (irs.gov)
- Additional Child Tax Credit cap $1,700 (2024) and refund hold. (irs.gov)
- Colorado due dates and extensions; DR 0158‑I. (tax.colorado.gov)
- Colorado payment plans and Collections contact. (tax.colorado.gov)
- 2‑1‑1 Colorado contact and services; Get Ahead Colorado hub. (211colorado.org, getaheadcolorado.org)
- ITIN application and TAC appointments. (irs.gov)
- Military OneSource MilTax. (militaryonesource.mil)
- PEAK Parent Center. (peakparent.org)
- Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute contact pages. (ccia.colorado.gov)
- Refund claim deadlines (RSED). (irs.gov)
If anything here doesn’t match what you’re seeing or you found a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update within 48 hours.
🏛️More Colorado Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Colorado
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 🥛 WIC Benefits
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- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
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- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
