EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Vermont
Vermont EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for Vermont single moms who need clear steps, real amounts, real deadlines, and direct links to file fast and correctly.
Quick help (start here)
- If you worked at all in 2024, file a 2024 federal and Vermont return to check the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Vermont EITC. Even if you owe nothing, you could get cash back. Use Vermont Free File if your 2024 AGI was $84,000 or less or book a free VITA/AARP appointment. Vermont Free File overview and Free File offers. (tax.vermont.gov)
- Claim the Vermont Child Tax Credit (VT CTC) if you have a child age 5 or younger. It’s up to $1,000 per child and is available even if you (or your child) don’t have an SSN/ITIN. File your Vermont return to claim it. VT Tax Dept. April filing reminder and No SSN/ITIN guidance. (tax.vermont.gov)
- Paying for child care? File Form 2441 for the federal Child & Dependent Care Credit (up to 3,000/3,000/6,000 of expenses count) and Vermont’s credit is 72% of your federal amount—and it’s refundable in Vermont. IRS Pub. 503 and 32 V.S.A. §5828c. (irs.gov, legislature.vermont.gov)
- Rent in 2024? File the Vermont Renter Credit claim in myVTax. Typical credits range 1,000–1,000–2,500 if income meets county limits; don’t miss the October 15 extended deadline. Renter Credit page and VT Dept. of Taxes press release. (tax.vermont.gov)
- Own your home? File the Homestead Declaration (HS‑122) and Property Tax Credit—maximum credits up to 5,600∗∗(stateedtax)+∗∗5,600** (state ed tax) + **2,400 (municipal) with 2024 household income under 115,000∗∗.April15duedate;after∗∗October15∗∗a∗∗115,000**. April 15 due date; after **October 15** a **150 reduction applies. Property Tax Credit page and Oct 2024 deadline notice. (tax.vermont.gov)
- Stuck? Call Vermont Dept. of Taxes at 802‑828‑2865 (M/T/Th/F business hours) or schedule help online; for free tax prep call AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669 or the IRS VITA line 800‑906‑9887. [VT Taxes contact/press], [AARP Tax‑Aide], [IRS Topic 101]. (tax.vermont.gov, aarp.org, irs.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (tax year 2024 amounts, filed in 2025)
| Credit | Who’s it for | Max amount | Key Vermont rule | How to claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC | Workers with low/mod income | Up to 7,830(3+kids);7,830 (3+ kids); 6,960 (2 kids); 4,213(1child);4,213 (1 child); 632 (no kids) | Refunds with EITC are held until at least late Feb; most early filers see deposits by around Mar 3. | File federal Form 1040 + Schedule EIC if kids. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) |
| Vermont EITC | Any VT resident who qualifies for federal EITC (plus VT allows claims even without SSN/ITIN) | 38% of your federal EITC (fully refundable) | Available even without SSN/ITIN; statute confirms refundability. | File VT Form IN‑111 (auto‑calculates from federal). (legislature.vermont.gov) |
| Vermont Child Tax Credit | Children age ≤5 | $1,000 per child (refundable) | Full credit up to AGI 125,000∗∗;partialupto∗∗125,000**; partial up to **175,000; SSN/ITIN not required. | File VT return (IN‑111); see no‑SSN steps if needed. (tax.vermont.gov) |
| Child & Dependent Care Credits | Work‑related child care | Federal credit up to 35% of 3,000/3,000/6,000 expenses; VT adds 72% of your federal credit (refundable in VT) | Vermont’s 72% is set in statute. | Federal Form 2441; VT return auto‑pulls; keep provider SSN/EIN. (irs.gov, legislature.vermont.gov) |
| Vermont Renter Credit | 2024 VT renters (6+ months) | About 1,000–1,000–2,500 typical | Income limits vary by county and family size; must file by Oct 15. | File Form RCC‑146 via myVTax. (tax.vermont.gov) |
| Property Tax Credit | VT homeowners | Up to 5,600stateed+5,600 state ed + 2,400 municipal | Household income cap 115,000∗∗(2024);lateclaimsafterOct15cutby∗∗115,000** (2024); late claims after Oct 15 cut by **150. | File HS‑122 + HI‑144. (tax.vermont.gov) |
Why this guide is different (and better than the top search results)
Most top pages don’t give the exact Vermont amounts, deadlines, county‑by‑county renter income limits, the PATH Act refund hold dates, or the direct phone numbers you’ll actually use. Below you’ll find current 2024 numbers (filed in 2025), 2025 filing timelines, official links, and real steps for Vermont. Every claim is sourced to state or IRS pages.
Step 1 — Claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Vermont EITC
The action that gets you paid fastest
- File your 2024 federal and Vermont returns electronically with direct deposit. If you claim EITC or the Additional CTC, the IRS can’t release your refund until mid‑February by law; most early filers see money by around March 3 if there are no issues. Track on “Where’s My Refund?” and myVTax. (irs.gov)
What you can get (tax year 2024)
- Federal EITC maximums for 2024: 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2 kids), 4,213∗∗(1child),∗∗4,213** (1 child), **632 (no children). Income limits for Head of Household: up to 59,899∗∗(3+),∗∗59,899** (3+), **55,768 (2), 49,084∗∗(1),∗∗49,084** (1), **18,591 (no kids). Investment income must be $11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- Vermont EITC = 38% of your federal EITC and is fully refundable. Example: if your federal EITC is 6,960∗∗(twokids),Vermontadds∗∗6,960** (two kids), Vermont adds **2,644.80. (38% is in statute and applies even if you or your child don’t have an SSN/ITIN.) (legislature.vermont.gov)
Who qualifies (quick check)
- You must have earned income (W‑2 or self‑employment). Kids counted for EITC must meet IRS relationship, age, and residency tests. If you have no qualifying child, you must be 25–64 (there are special rules for certain youth). Use the IRS EITC Assistant to confirm. (irs.gov)
Vermont inclusivity rule (important for mixed‑status families)
- Vermont allows the state EITC even if you, your spouse, or your child do not have an SSN or ITIN. The Department cannot ask about citizenship/immigration status when you claim VT EITC. (tax.vermont.gov)
How to file
- File Form 1040; add Schedule EIC if you have qualifying children. Then file your Vermont return (IN‑111). Vermont will calculate VT EITC automatically from your federal amount. Free help is available (see Help section). (irs.gov)
Timeline reality check
- Because of the PATH Act, the IRS legally holds refunds with EITC/ACTC until mid‑February. For 2025 filing (tax year 2024), most early EITC/ACTC filers see an updated refund date by about February 22 and direct deposits around March 3 if no issues. Vermont refunds vary—check myVTax. (irs.gov)
Real Vermont example
- You’re Head of Household with two kids, made $28,000 in 2024. You likely qualify for a substantial federal EITC (see IRS table) and a Vermont EITC that’s 38% of your federal amount. Use the IRS EITC Assistant to estimate, then file to get both credits. (eitc.irs.gov)
Documents you’ll need
- Photo ID; SSNs/ITINs for you and kids (for federal EITC you need SSNs; Vermont EITC does not require SSN/ITIN).
- W‑2s, 1099s, and proof of self‑employment income/expenses if applicable.
- Proof of child residency (school or medical records) if requested by the IRS. (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (EITC)
- Claiming a child who didn’t live with you more than half the year.
- Putting the wrong SSN or name spelling—this delays refunds.
- Overlooking the $11,600 investment income cap for 2024.
- Mismatching custody with your ex’s return (tie‑breaker rules apply). Use HOH rules and EITC tests. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask a VITA/AARP Tax‑Aide preparer to review your return for free (800‑906‑9887, 888‑227‑7669).
- If the IRS denies your EITC, don’t ignore it—call Vermont Legal Aid’s Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic (statewide helpline 800‑889‑2047) for dispute help. (irs.gov, aarp.org, vtlawhelp.org, w.vtlawhelp.org)
Step 2 — Vermont Child Tax Credit: $1,000 per child age 5 or younger
The action that gets you paid fastest
- File your Vermont return and claim the Vermont CTC for any child who was age 5 or younger at end of 2024. It’s up to $1,000 per child, fully refundable. (tax.vermont.gov)
Who qualifies and how much
- Full credit if your AGI is 125,000∗∗orless;partialcreditphasesdownto∗∗125,000** or less; partial credit phases down to **175,000 AGI. Vermont made this credit permanent and continues to allow claims without SSN/ITIN. (tax.vermont.gov)
If you or your child don’t have an SSN/ITIN
- Vermont allows you to claim the VT CTC without SSN/ITIN. Include a “pro‑forma” federal Form 1040 to show your AGI, complete VT IN‑111/IN‑112 with your child’s name(s), and include income documentation (W‑2s, pay stubs, employer letter). For help call 802‑828‑6815 or email tax.preparer@vermont.gov. (tax.vermont.gov)
Documents you’ll need
- Child’s info (name, date of birth), your ID, and proof of income.
- If no SSN/ITIN, follow the VT steps above and attach supporting docs. (tax.vermont.gov)
Example
- Single mom in Rutland with two children ages 1 and 4, AGI 62,000∗∗:expect∗∗62,000**: expect **2,000 from Vermont CTC (plus any EITC/CDCC you qualify for). (tax.vermont.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (VT CTC)
- Confusing the VT CTC with the federal CTC: federal needs a child SSN; Vermont CTC does not.
- Not filing at all—this is a refundable credit; you must file to be paid. (irs.gov, tax.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Schedule a call or in‑person help with VT Tax at 802‑828‑2865, or use the appointment request form.
- Use free VITA/AARP prep to make sure your forms and ITIN/SSN situations are handled correctly. (tax.vermont.gov, irs.gov)
Step 3 — Child & Dependent Care Credits (daycare, after‑school, summer day camp)
The action that gets you paid fastest
- Save receipts and the provider’s SSN/EIN, then file Form 2441 with your federal return. Vermont will add 72% of your federal child care credit as a refundable state credit. (irs.gov, legislature.vermont.gov)
What you can get
- Federal CDCC lets you claim 20%–35% of up to 3,000∗∗(onechild)or∗∗3,000** (one child) or **6,000 (two or more) in work‑related child care expenses. Vermont then gives you 72% of your federal credit. Example: if your federal credit is 1,200∗∗(201,200** (20% of **6,000), your Vermont credit adds 864∗∗(72864** (72% of **1,200). (irs.gov, legislature.vermont.gov)
Who qualifies and what counts
- Care must be so you can work or look for work. Preschool and day camp count; kindergarten tuition and overnight camp don’t. You’ll need the provider’s SSN/EIN on Form 2441. (irs.gov)
Vermont child care contribution on paystubs (don’t panic)
- Starting July 1, 2024, employers pay a 0.44% payroll tax (may withhold up to 0.11% from wages). Self‑employed pay 0.11%. This is not a credit but funds child care statewide. You’ll just see “CCC” on your W‑2. (tax.vermont.gov)
Need child care help beyond tax time?
- Ask about Vermont’s Child Care Financial Assistance Program (DCF Bright Futures/Child Development Division): 800‑649‑2642. (secure.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If a provider won’t give an SSN/EIN, ask for a written statement and keep proof of payment; a VITA preparer can help you document.
- If you can’t afford care now, call 2‑1‑1 to connect with subsidy help or Head Start/Early Head Start in your county. (vermont211.org)
Step 4 — Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional CTC
The action that gets you paid fastest
- File Schedule 8812. For 2024 returns, the CTC is up to 2,000∗∗perchildunder17;upto∗∗2,000** per child under 17; up to **1,700 per child is refundable as the Additional CTC if you have at least $2,500 in earned income. Refunds with ACTC are held until mid‑February (PATH Act). (irs.gov)
Key rules
- Your child must have an SSN issued by the return due date; income phase‑out begins at $200,000 (HOH/single). The IRS updates refund status by late February for early filers; most see deposits by around March 3. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you or your child don’t have an SSN, you cannot claim the federal CTC, but you can still claim the Vermont CTC and Vermont EITC (see the no‑SSN section).
- If the IRS disallowed your CTC/ACTC in the past, you may need Form 8862 to claim again; a VITA/AARP site can help. (irs.gov)
Step 5 — Housing tax relief: Vermont Renter Credit and Property Tax Credit
Vermont Renter Credit (2024 renters)
- What to do first: file the Renter Credit Claim (Form RCC‑146) in myVTax. Many families see 1,000–1,000–2,500 based on county fair market rent and household income. You must have rented in Vermont at least 6 months in 2024, lived in VT all year, and not be claimed as someone’s dependent. Final extended filing deadline is October 15 each year (no claims accepted after). (tax.vermont.gov)
- Income limits: Vermont posts county‑by‑county income limit tables for partial credit. Example (2024 family of 3) limits include: Addison 63,770∗∗,Chittenden∗∗63,770**, Chittenden **69,620, Rutland 55,580∗∗,Washington∗∗55,580**, Washington **61,960, Windsor $58,830 (see full table for all sizes and counties). (tax.vermont.gov)
- You’ll need: your rental address and SPAN (School Property Account Number—use the SPAN Finder), your lease dates and rent paid, and Form RCC‑146. Help: tax.individualincome@vermont.gov or 802‑828‑2865 / 866‑828‑2865. (tax.vermont.gov)
Selected 2024 Renter Credit Partial‑Credit Income Limits (family of 3)
| County | Income limit |
|---|---|
| Addison | $63,770 |
| Chittenden | $69,620 |
| Rutland | $55,580 |
| Washington | $61,960 |
| Windsor | $58,830 |
Source: VT Dept. of Taxes income limits table. (tax.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- File by April 15 with your return; if you miss it, you can still file through October 15 (final). If you have trouble in myVTax, call 802‑828‑2865 or ask a VITA site to submit it with your return. (tax.vermont.gov)
Vermont Property Tax Credit (homeowners)
- What to do first: file your Homestead Declaration HS‑122 (Section A) and Property Tax Credit Claim (Section B) plus Schedule HI‑144. Maximum credits are 5,600∗∗(stateeducation)+∗∗5,600** (state education) + **2,400 (municipal). 2024 household income must be under 115,000∗∗.Due∗∗April15∗∗;ifyoufileafter∗∗October15∗∗,anycreditisreducedby∗∗115,000**. Due **April 15**; if you file after **October 15**, any credit is reduced by **150 and sent directly to you (not your town). (tax.vermont.gov)
- Where to file: myVTax (online) or mail forms. Learn the Homestead steps and deadlines. (tax.vermont.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call 802‑828‑2865 for help or book a free filing appointment with a Community Action VITA program in your county. (tax.vermont.gov)
Filing basics for Vermont single moms
Choose the right filing status (Head of Household saves money)
- You can file Head of Household if you’re unmarried (or “considered unmarried”), paid more than half the cost of keeping up a home, and your qualifying child lived with you more than half the year (special rule if the other parent claims the child by agreement). HOH often lowers your tax and increases credits. (irs.gov)
Deadlines and extensions
- 2024 returns are due April 15, 2025. You can extend to October 15, 2025 for filing, but you must pay any tax by April 15 to avoid penalties/interest. Vermont follows the same dates for personal income tax. (tax.vermont.gov)
Refund timing
- E‑file + direct deposit = generally under 3 weeks for returns without EITC/ACTC; with EITC/ACTC, most early filers see deposits by around March 3. Track at IRS “Where’s My Refund?” and myVTax. (irs.gov)
Free ways to file and get help
- Vermont Free File (AGS up to $84,000, vendor options vary by age/military/EITC status). Start from the Vermont Free File page to ensure your state return is free.
- IRS VITA (800‑906‑9887) and AARP Tax‑Aide (888‑227‑7669) statewide; local Community Action agencies in each region run VITA (CVOEO, Capstone, BROC, NEKCA, SEVCA).
- Schedule Vermont Tax Dept. help or call 802‑828‑2865. (tax.vermont.gov)
Quick tables you can use today
Federal EITC amounts and single/HOH income limits (tax year 2024)
| Qualifying children | Max credit | Income must be less than (single/HOH) |
|---|---|---|
| 3+ | $7,830 | $59,899 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 |
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 |
Source: IRS EITC 2024 table. (eitc.irs.gov)
What Vermont adds on top (refundable)
| If your federal credit is… | Your Vermont EITC (38%) is… |
|---|---|
| $7,830 | $2,975.40 |
| $6,960 | $2,644.80 |
| $4,213 | $1,600.94 |
| $632 | $240.16 |
Source: 32 V.S.A. §5828b (VT EITC = 38% of federal). (legislature.vermont.gov)
Child & Dependent Care: simple examples
| Care expenses you paid | Federal CDCC (20%–35%) | Vermont CDCC add‑on (72% of your federal credit) |
|---|---|---|
| $3,000 (one child) | 600–600–1,050 | 432–432–756 |
| $6,000 (two+ kids) | 1,200–1,200–2,100 | 864–864–1,512 |
Sources: IRS Pub. 503 and 32 V.S.A. §5828c. (irs.gov, legislature.vermont.gov)
Renters: key requirements and dates
| Requirement | What to know |
|---|---|
| Residency | Lived in Vermont all of 2024; rented in VT for at least 6 months; not someone else’s dependent. |
| Filing | File with your return or separately in myVTax; last day accepted is October 15. |
| Typical amount | Around 1,000–1,000–2,500, varies by county and family size. |
Sources: VT Renter Credit page and 2025 filing season press release. (tax.vermont.gov)
Application checklist (print this before you go to VITA)
- Your photo ID; SSNs/ITINs for everyone on your return (for federal credits).
- All W‑2s, 1099s, and self‑employment income/expense records.
- Child care provider SSN/EIN, address, and total paid (Form 2441).
- For Renter Credit: your SPAN, rental address(es), and total rent paid.
- For homeowners: HS‑122/HI‑144 details (homestead, household income).
- Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
- Prior‑year return (if you have it). (irs.gov, tax.vermont.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (this saves weeks of delay)
- Missing the EITC because you didn’t file—file even if your income is low.
- Claiming the federal CTC without a child SSN (you’ll get denied or delayed); if your child lacks an SSN, claim the Vermont CTC instead.
- Forgetting PATH Act timing: EITC/ACTC refunds don’t arrive before mid‑February.
- Wrong provider info on Form 2441 (child care credit).
- Missing renter SPAN, or filing after October 15 (VT can’t accept late renter claims).
- Not using Head of Household when you qualify. (irs.gov, tax.vermont.gov)
Diverse Communities: tailored tips and contacts
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Taxes use the same definitions for “parent” and “qualifying child.” If you adopted, your child is treated as your own. For HOH rules and EITC child tests, follow IRS guidance; VITA sites welcome all families. (irs.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Federal CDCC allows expenses for care of a spouse/dependent who can’t self‑care; Vermont adds 72% of your federal credit. If your only income is disability benefits, ask VITA to review eligibility for EITC and other credits. (irs.gov, legislature.vermont.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask your town clerk about the Disabled Veteran property tax exemption (minimum 10,000∗∗reductioninassessedvalue;sometownsgoupto∗∗10,000** reduction in assessed value; some towns go up to **40,000). (tax.vermont.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Vermont EITC and Vermont CTC can be claimed even without an SSN/ITIN; the Department will not ask about citizenship status. If you need an ITIN for federal credits, make a TAC appointment: 844‑545‑5640. (tax.vermont.gov, irs.gov)
- Tribal citizens: If you receive income on‑reservation or have treaty‑related questions, bring documents to a VITA preparer; complex issues can go to the Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic (800‑889‑2047). (w.vtlawhelp.org)
- Rural single moms without internet: call 2‑1‑1 to book VITA or ask your Community Action agency to help file by phone or in person. (vermont211.org)
- Single fathers: All credits above apply equally if you meet the tests.
- Language access: DCF Benefits has interpretation lines (855‑247‑3092). For Vermont Tax questions if you’re working with an ITIN, call 802‑828‑6815. (women.vermont.gov, tax.vermont.gov)
Local organizations that actually help with taxes and credits
- Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO) — VITA in Chittenden/Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison; appointments via 2‑1‑1 or 802‑388‑2285. CVOEO Tax Prep. (cvoeo.org)
- Capstone Community Action — Central Vermont VITA; 802‑477‑5176. Capstone Tax Prep. (capstonevt.org)
- BROC Community Action — Rutland/Bennington VITA; 802‑665‑1711 (Dustyn), office 800‑717‑2762. BROC VITA. (broc.org)
- SEVCA — Windham/Windsor VITA; 802‑428‑3032. SEVCA Tax Services. (sevca.org)
- NEKCA — Caledonia/Orleans/Essex VITA; 855‑663‑5224. Tax Credits VT finder. (taxcreditsvt.org)
- Vermont 2‑1‑1 — statewide info/referrals; call 2‑1‑1 or 802‑652‑4636 / 866‑652‑4636. VT 211 contact. (vermont211.org)
- Vermont Legal Aid & Legal Services Vermont — Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic and legal help; statewide helpline 800‑889‑2047. Locations/contacts. (vtlawhelp.org)
If you missed older credits: retroactive EITC window
- You can still claim past‑year EITC refunds for three years from each return’s due date: for 2022 until April 15, 2026, for 2023 until April 15, 2027. File the correct year’s Form 1040 (or amend with 1040‑X). (irs.gov)
What to do when you need help now
- Vermont Dept. of Taxes: 802‑828‑2865 or request an appointment (phone, virtual, or in‑person). Schedule help.
- IRS “Where’s My Refund?” and refund timing for EITC/ACTC: earliest dates and daily updates.
- IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center appointments (for ITIN or in‑person issues): 844‑545‑5640. (tax.vermont.gov, irs.gov)
What to do if none of this works
- Call 2‑1‑1 to be matched to a local VITA site or Community Action staff who can help you file in person.
- For disputes, collections, or audit letters, call the Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic via Legal Services Vermont at 800‑889‑2047.
- If you can’t file online, ask Vermont Dept. of Taxes to mail paper forms or help you file in myVTax. (vermont211.org, vtlawhelp.org, tax.vermont.gov)
10 Vermont‑specific FAQs
- Q: I don’t have an SSN. Can I still get Vermont credits?
A: Yes, Vermont EITC and Vermont CTC can be claimed without SSN/ITIN. See the VT “No SSN/ITIN” page for documents to attach. Federal EITC/CTC still require SSNs. Call 802‑828‑6815 for help. (tax.vermont.gov) - Q: When will my refund arrive if I claim EITC/ACTC?
A: By law, not before mid‑February. Most early e‑filers with direct deposit see funds by about March 3 if no issues. (irs.gov) - Q: How much is the Vermont EITC?
A: 38% of your federal EITC and fully refundable. (legislature.vermont.gov) - Q: What is the Vermont CTC amount and age?
A: 1,000∗∗perchildage∗∗5oryounger∗∗;fulluptoAGI∗∗1,000** per child age **5 or younger**; full up to AGI **125,000, partial to $175,000. (tax.vermont.gov) - Q: I paid for daycare. Do I get a Vermont credit?
A: Yes. Claim the federal CDCC (Form 2441) and Vermont adds 72% of your federal credit as a refundable state credit. (legislature.vermont.gov) - Q: I rent. Can I get help even if I don’t file a full tax return?
A: Yes. You can file a stand‑alone Renter Credit claim in myVTax if income meets county limits and you rented 6+ months. The last day to submit is October 15. (tax.vermont.gov) - Q: I own my home. What is the Property Tax Credit?
A: Up to 5,600∗∗(stateed)+∗∗5,600** (state ed) + **2,400 (municipal) if 2024 household income ≤ 115,000∗∗.FileHS‑122andHI‑144by∗∗April15∗∗(latefilingreduction∗∗115,000**. File HS‑122 and HI‑144 by **April 15** (late filing reduction **150 if received after October 15). (tax.vermont.gov) - Q: Does getting EITC affect my food benefits?
A: An EITC refund is not counted as income for federal programs for at least 12 months. Also, VT families with kids who receive VT EITC are categorically eligible to apply for 3SquaresVT (you still must apply). (irs.gov, dcf.vermont.gov) - Q: Where can I get free tax prep in my county?
A: Call 2‑1‑1 or your Community Action agency (CVOEO, Capstone, BROC, NEKCA, SEVCA). AARP Tax‑Aide also serves all ages: 888‑227‑7669. (vermont211.org, cvoeo.org, capstonevt.org, broc.org, sevca.org) - Q: Can I still get EITC for past years?
A: Yes. You have three years: 2022 until April 15, 2026; 2023 until April 15, 2027. File the correct prior‑year return or amend. (irs.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Vermont Department of Taxes, Vermont Department for Children and Families, IRS/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.
Disclaimer
- Program rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines change. Always confirm using the official links in this guide before you file. This article provides general information, not legal or tax advice.
- Security note: For your privacy, use only the official Vermont Department of Taxes site (myVTax) and IRS.gov. Avoid sharing tax documents by text or unencrypted email. Use secure portals provided by VITA/AARP or commercial software.
Sources (selected)
- IRS: 2024 EITC amounts and limits; Pub. 596; PATH refund timing; Schedule 8812 (ACTC $1,700); Pub. 503 (CDCC); Saver’s Credit tables; AOTC/LLC. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- Vermont statutes and tax guidance: VT EITC 38% and refundable (32 V.S.A. §5828b); VT CDCC 72% (32 V.S.A. §5828c); VT CTC amounts/eligibility; filing deadlines; Free File; Renter Credit; Property Tax Credit; Homestead/HI‑144; Child Care Contribution. (legislature.vermont.gov, tax.vermont.gov)
- 3SquaresVT link with EITC eligibility note and income guidelines; Legal Aid LITC; VT 2‑1‑1 contact. (dcf.vermont.gov, vtlawhelp.org, vermont211.org)
- Community Action VITA programs (CVOEO, Capstone, BROC, SEVCA) with phone numbers. (cvoeo.org, capstonevt.org, broc.org, sevca.org)
- Renter Credit income limit table (2024). (tax.vermont.gov)
- Disabled Veteran property tax exemption (minimum 10,000∗∗,upto∗∗10,000**, up to **40,000 municipal). (tax.vermont.gov)
By following the steps above—file, claim, and use free help—you’re putting real money back into your family’s budget quickly and correctly.
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- 💰 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
