EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in South Dakota
South Dakota EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers (2025): The No‑Fluff Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is written for single mothers in South Dakota who need clear, current, and practical steps to claim every dollar they’ve earned through tax credits. It uses only official sources, shows exact 2024 and 2025 dollar amounts, and gives phone numbers and links you can actually use.
Quick Help Box
- IRS Free File and Direct File: file federal taxes for free if your 2024 AGI was $84,000 or less; Direct File is available in South Dakota. Start here: IRS Free File overview (eligibility and how to start) and IRS: free options incl. Direct File in 25 states (SD included). (irs.gov)
 - Free in‑person tax prep (VITA/TCE/AARP): IRS locator or call 800‑906‑9887; AARP Tax‑Aide SD sites (Sioux Falls scheduling via 211). Check IRS VITA locator and AARP Tax‑Aide SD locations and phone numbers. (dakotaathome.sd.gov, states.aarp.org)
 - IRS live help by phone: Individuals 800‑829‑1040 (7 a.m.–7 p.m. local time). To book an in‑person IRS appointment at a TAC, call 844‑545‑5640. See IRS “Let us help you” (phone hours and TAC info). (irs.gov)
 - If your refund includes EITC/ACTC: by law, IRS can’t pay before mid‑February; most early filers see deposits by early March. See IRS refund timing for EITC/ACTC. (irs.gov)
 - South Dakota has no state personal income tax (so no state EITC or CTC). State tax info and property-tax relief programs: South Dakota Department of Revenue – Taxes overview. (dor.sd.gov)
 
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (2024 vs 2025 federal amounts)
| Credit | 2024 (filed in 2025) | 2025 (filed in 2026) | Key rule/source | 
|---|---|---|---|
| EITC – max with 3+ kids | $7,830 | $8,046 | IRS News IR‑2024‑273 + Rev. Proc. 2024‑40 table and IRB 2024‑45 (RP 2024‑40). (irs.gov) | 
| EITC – max with 2 kids | $6,960 | $7,152 | IRS EITC 2024 limits and [IRB 2024‑45 table]. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) | 
| EITC – max with 1 kid | $4,213 | $4,328 | Same sources as above. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) | 
| EITC – max with 0 kids | $632 | $649 | Same sources as above. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) | 
| CTC per child under 17 | 2,000∗∗(refundupto∗∗2,000** (refund up to **1,700) | 2,000∗∗(refundupto∗∗2,000** (refund up to **1,700) | [Schedule 8812 instructions 2024 – ACTC 1,700∗∗],[IRB2024‑45§.05–∗∗1,700**], [IRB 2024‑45 §.05 – **1,700 for 2025]. (irs.gov) | 
| Child & Dependent Care Credit | Up to 35% of 3,000∗∗(onechild)/∗∗3,000** (one child) / **6,000 (two+), phases down to 20% | Same | IRS Pub. 503. (irs.gov) | 
| Free File income cap | $84,000 AGI (tax year 2024) | TBD (announced each filing season) | [IRS Free File 2025 filing season notice]. (irs.gov) | 
Note: South Dakota does not offer state-level EITC, CTC, or CDCTC because the state has no personal income tax. (dor.sd.gov)
What we checked (and why this guide is different)
We reviewed the top results for “South Dakota EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers.” Most pages were generic, didn’t have 2025 numbers, and didn’t call out that South Dakota has no state income tax/EITC. Few listed phone numbers, deadlines, or refund timelines; almost none covered the 2025 EITC increases, Free File’s higher $84,000 AGI limit, or South Dakota‑specific property‑tax relief and tribal VITA sites. This guide fills those gaps with verified dollar amounts, direct links, working phone numbers, and step‑by‑step actions.
Start here: claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
If you had wages or self‑employment income in 2024 or 2025, EITC is usually your biggest refundable credit.
Most important action first
- File a federal tax return (Form 1040) and include Schedule EIC if you have a qualifying child. If your AGI is $84,000 or less (2024 income), start with IRS Free File or Direct File (available in SD). (irs.gov)
 
2025 EITC amounts (for returns you file in 2026)
| Qualifying children | Max credit | Earned income to reach max | Phaseout starts (Single/HOH) | Phaseout starts (MFJ) | No credit if AGI ≥ (Single/HOH) | No credit if AGI ≥ (MFJ) | 
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 or more | $8,046 | $17,880 | $23,350 | $30,470 | $61,555 | $68,675 | 
| 2 | $7,152 | $17,880 | $23,350 | $30,470 | $57,310 | $64,430 | 
| 1 | $4,328 | $12,730 | $23,350 | $30,470 | $50,434 | $57,554 | 
| 0 | $649 | $8,490 | $10,620 | $17,730 | $19,104 | $26,214 | 
Source: IRS Revenue Procedure 2024‑40 (Internal Revenue Bulletin 2024‑45). (irs.gov)
2024 EITC amounts (if you still need to file 2024)
| Qualifying children | Max credit | Upper AGI limit (Single/HOH) | Upper AGI limit (MFJ) | 
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 or more | $7,830 | $59,899 | $66,819 | 
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 | $62,688 | 
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 | $56,004 | 
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 | $25,511 | 
Source: IRS EITC 2024 income limits and ranges. (eitc.irs.gov)
Key rule updates to know
- You, your spouse (if filing jointly), and any child you claim for EITC must have valid SSNs issued by the return due date. Investment income must be under $11,950 for 2025. Do not file Form 2555 (foreign earned income) if you want EITC. See IRS Publication 596 and 2025 adjustment in Rev. Proc. 2024‑40. (irs.gov)
 - “Separated spouse” rule: you may claim EITC without filing jointly if you lived apart from your spouse the last 6 months of the year or are legally separated and you have a qualifying child who lived with you more than half the year—see Rule 3 in Publication 596. (irs.gov)
 
How to apply (file)
- File Form 1040 and attach Schedule EIC if you have a qualifying child. If your AGI was $84,000 or under for 2024, use Free File/Direct File; otherwise, VITA/TCE or a paid preparer. Links above. (irs.gov)
 
Required documents
- W‑2s/1099s; Social Security cards (you and kids); childcare provider info (if also claiming care credit); proof your child lived with you (school or medical records, lease, etc.); bank account for direct deposit.
 
Real‑world example (2025)
- You’re a single mom in Rapid City with two kids. Earned income 18,500∗∗.Youreachthe“maxcreditearnings”bandfortwokids(∗∗18,500**. You reach the “max credit earnings” band for two kids (**17,880), so you’ll be near the max EITC of about $7,152 for 2025, then the credit phases out as income rises. Always run the IRS calculator or filing software to get your exact amount. (irs.gov)
 
Timelines (refunds)
- By law, if you claim EITC (or ACTC), IRS cannot issue your refund before mid‑February. Most early e‑filers with direct deposit see refunds by the first week of March if there are no issues. Track with “Where’s My Refund.” (irs.gov)
 
Common pitfalls
- Claiming a child who doesn’t pass residency/relationship tests; using a child without an SSN; investment income too high; filing MFS when you could qualify as Head of Household; typos in routing/account numbers delaying direct deposit. See Pub. 596 for rules. (irs.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your child lacks an SSN by the filing deadline, consider claiming EITC as a worker without a qualifying child (smaller amount) and/or claim the $500 Credit for Other Dependents (if the child has an ITIN), then amend later if an SSN is issued. See IRS EITC/CTC dependency and TIN rules. (eitc.irs.gov)
 
Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
Most important action first
- File Form 1040 with Schedule 8812 to claim the CTC/ACTC. If you qualify for ACTC, part of the credit is refundable—this boosts your refund even if you owe $0. (irs.gov)
 
What you can get
- Up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchildunder17for2025.Therefundableportion(ACTC)isupto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child under 17 for 2025. The refundable portion (ACTC) is up to **1,700 per child for 2025 (same as 2024). Children must have SSNs valid for work issued by the due date of your return. (irs.gov)
 - Phaseouts start at 200,000∗∗MAGI(single/HOH)and∗∗200,000** MAGI (single/HOH) and **400,000 (MFJ). See Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
 
Timing reality check
- IRS holds refunds that include ACTC until mid‑February; most early filers see money by early March if no issues. (irs.gov)
 
If your child doesn’t have an SSN
- You cannot claim the 2,000CTC,butyoumayclaimthenonrefundable∗∗2,000 CTC, but you may claim the nonrefundable **500** Credit for Other Dependents (ODC) for dependents with an SSN, ITIN, or ATIN. See IRS CTC/ACTC/ODC rules. (eitc.irs.gov)
 
How to apply (file)
- File Form 1040 + Schedule 8812. If AGI ≤ $84,000 (2024), use Free File/Direct File; otherwise VITA/TCE or paid prep. (irs.gov)
 
Real‑world example
- Sioux Falls mom with one 7‑year‑old, income 28,000∗∗.HerCTCis∗∗28,000**. Her CTC is **2,000. If her tax after other credits is 0,upto∗∗0, up to **1,700** turns into a refund through ACTC (15% of earned income above $2,500, up to the cap). Software will calculate the exact refundable amount. (irs.gov)
 
Common mistakes to avoid
- Claiming CTC when the child lacks an SSN; forgetting Schedule 8812; misunderstanding divorce/separation rules (custodial vs noncustodial). See IRS FAQs and Pub. 501/504. (irs.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If you can’t claim CTC, check ODC ($500) and EITC (even without a qualifying child, if you meet age and income rules). If a child gets an SSN after filing, you may amend the return for that year if all other requirements are met. (eitc.irs.gov)
 
Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCTC)
Helps when you pay for care so you can work or look for work.
Most important action first
- Gather your provider’s name, address, and TIN (use Form W‑10), and file Form 2441 with your 1040. If the provider refuses the TIN, you can still claim the credit if you show due diligence—attach a statement as IRS explains. (irs.gov)
 
What you can get
- Credit is 20%–35% of eligible expenses, up to 3,000∗∗foronechildor∗∗3,000** for one child or **6,000 for two or more. Not refundable. The % slides down as AGI rises; at $43,000+ AGI the rate is 20%. See IRS Pub. 503. (irs.gov)
 
Credit rate table (AGI)
| AGI | % | 
|---|---|
| 0–0–15,000 | 35% | 
| … | … | 
| 41,000–41,000–43,000 | 21% | 
| $43,000+ | 20% | 
Source: IRS Publication 503. (irs.gov)
Important
- Expenses paid with employer Dependent Care FSA (up to $5,000) don’t count toward the credit; you can combine, but Form 2441 coordinates the limits. (irs.gov)
 
Real‑world example
- You paid 4,800∗∗forafter‑schoolcarefortwokids;AGI∗∗4,800** for after‑school care for two kids; AGI **30,000. Your % is 27%, but your expense cap is 6,000∗∗.Credit≈∗∗6,000**. Credit ≈ **4,800 × 27% = $1,296. (Software will handle the exact steps.) (irs.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If you can’t get the provider’s SSN/EIN, claim the credit with a due‑diligence statement as IRS allows. If your income is too high for much credit, consider a Dependent Care FSA next year if your employer offers one. (irs.gov)
 
Education credits (college or job‑training)
- American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): up to 2,500∗∗pereligiblestudent;402,500** per eligible student; 40% refundable (up to **1,000). Income phaseout: MAGI 80,000–80,000–90,000 (single) / 160,000–160,000–180,000 (MFJ). Claim with Form 8863. See IRS Pub. 970. (irs.gov)
 - Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): up to 2,000∗∗perreturn(202,000** per return (20% of first **10,000 in expenses); not refundable; same MAGI phaseouts. Claim with Form 8863. See IRS LLC page. (irs.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your income is too high for AOTC/LLC, ask the school about 1098‑T corrections, verify scholarship reporting, or see if employer education benefits apply next year. If you missed claiming a prior year, you may amend within 3 years.
 
Premium Tax Credit (health insurance marketplace) – quick note
- If you received advance PTC payments, you must file and reconcile on Form 8962. For 2025, the law sets updated caps on paying back excess advance credits; see Revenue Procedure 2024‑40 (e.g., 375/375/750, 975/975/1,950, 1,625/1,625/3,250 caps by income band). (irs.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If you ignored a 1095‑A or skipped reconciling, your 2026 advance help could stop. File the missing return and reconcile to restore eligibility.
 
South Dakota–specific: state tax and property‑tax relief
- South Dakota has no state personal income tax and offers no state EITC/CTC/CDCTC. You only file federal for these credits. (dor.sd.gov)
 - If you’re a disabled single mother or caring for a disabled adult, check SD property‑tax relief programs (these are not income‑tax credits but can free up cash):
- Sales & Property Tax Refund for Seniors & Citizens with Disabilities – annual refunds based on income (for example, 2024 income limits: 16,566∗∗single;∗∗16,566** single; **22,484 multiple‑member households; applications May 1–July 1 each year). Call 800‑829‑9188 (Option 1). See the Department of Revenue’s program page for deadlines, forms, and updates. (dor.sd.gov)
 - Additional programs include Assessment Freeze for Elderly & Disabled, Municipal property‑tax reduction (where offered), and disabled veteran exemptions (up to $200,000 of assessed value). See SD DOR Relief Programs. (dor.sd.gov)
 
 
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If you don’t qualify for state property‑tax relief, try local charities (food, rent, utilities) below and maximize federal credits with free tax help.
 
Filing status matters: Head of Household (HOH)
- HOH gives you a higher standard deduction ($22,500 in 2025) than Single and can increase credits. To qualify: be unmarried (or “considered unmarried”), pay over half the cost of keeping up a home, and have a qualifying person who lived with you over half the year (parent exception). See IRS Publication 501. (irs.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your ex is the noncustodial parent claiming the child via Form 8332, you may still be the custodial parent for HOH and EITC if the child lived with you more nights; review Pub. 501 carefully or get free help. (irs.gov)
 
Refund timelines (PATH Act reality)
| If you claim… | E‑file + direct deposit | Paper filing | 
|---|---|---|
| No EITC/ACTC | Usually within about 21 days | 6–8 weeks or longer | 
| EITC and/or ACTC | IRS holds until mid‑February; most early filers see money by first week of March if no issues | Add several weeks | 
Source: IRS refund timing for EITC/ACTC. (irs.gov)
Free filing and free help in South Dakota
- File free online (federal): AGI ≤ $84,000 for tax year 2024 using IRS Free File. SD residents can also use IRS Direct File. (irs.gov)
 - Free in‑person help (bring IDs, Social Security cards, W‑2s/1099s, daycare provider info, 1095‑A if marketplace plan):
- IRS VITA locator: 800‑906‑9887 or VITA/TCE site finder. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - AARP Tax‑Aide (serves all ages with focus on low/moderate income): sample SD sites and phones—Aberdeen 605‑622‑0750, Brookings 605‑627‑1793, Custer/Rapid City 605‑574‑1730, Pierre 605‑224‑7730, Sioux Falls scheduling via 211. See AARP SD announcement. (states.aarp.org)
 - Tribal and rural VITA examples: Sinte Gleska University (Mission): 605‑856‑8111 (check hours/season); general IRS VITA line 800‑906‑9887. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - Book IRS in‑person appointments (Sioux Falls TAC): call 844‑545‑5640 (nationwide TAC line). (irs.gov)
 
 
Local organizations (practical help while you wait for refunds)
- Feeding South Dakota: Mobile Food Distributions statewide; use the “Find Food” map; info line 605‑773‑4736 for TEFAP questions. See program details. (feedingsouthdakota.org)
 - 211 Helpline Center: dial 211 (24/7) for local assistance and referrals statewide. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - St. Francis House (Sioux Falls): shelter and support. 605‑334‑3879. (stfrancishouse.com)
 - Cornerstone Rescue Mission (Rapid City): women & children’s services. Main 605‑718‑8712; Women & Children’s Home 605‑721‑7860. (citygatenetwork.org, dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - Catholic Social Services (Rapid City): counseling and family supports. 605‑348‑6086. (cssrapidcity.com)
 - Lutheran Social Services of SD: Center for Financial Resources, Center for New Americans, and more. 605‑444‑7500 / 800‑568‑2401. (lsssd.org)
 
Diverse Communities: extra tips and resources
LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Filing rules are the same. If legally married, you generally can’t use HOH; if separated and living apart the last 6 months, review HOH/EITC separated‑spouse rules. Many VITA/TCE sites offer private rooms—ask when booking. See Pub. 501 and Pub. 596 rules. (irs.gov)
 
Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children
- Check CDCTC if you pay for care so you can work; a spouse/dependent “not able to care for themselves” can also qualify. For housing cost relief, see SD property‑tax programs and disability‑related exemptions or reductions. (irs.gov, dor.sd.gov)
 
Veteran single mothers
- If you’re a disabled veteran homeowner, SD exempts up to $200,000 of assessed value; apply by November 1 with your county assessor. This isn’t a tax credit but can free up money. (dor.sd.gov)
 
Immigrant and refugee single moms
- To claim the 2,000CTC,eachchildmusthaveanSSNvalidforemploymentbythefilingdeadline.ChildrenwithoutSSNsmayqualifyyouforthe∗∗2,000 CTC, each child must have an SSN valid for employment by the filing deadline. Children without SSNs may qualify you for the **500** ODC. ITIN services are available by appointment at IRS TACs (call 844‑545‑5640) and via Acceptance Agents in SD. Language help is available via the IRS in multiple languages. See IRS ITIN/TAC pages and language access info. (irs.gov)
 
Tribal‑specific resources
- Tribal colleges and community partners often host VITA. Example: Sinte Gleska University VITA (Mission) 605‑856‑8111; use the IRS locator (or 800‑906‑9887) for sites on or near your reservation. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 
Rural single moms with limited internet/transportation
- Use Direct File on a smartphone or free library computers; ask 211 about transportation help to VITA sites. Book IRS appointments only if needed; most questions are solved by phone (800‑829‑1040) or Free File/Direct File chat. (irs.gov)
 
Single fathers and kinship caregivers
- The rules here apply to you as well. If the child lived with you more than half the year and you paid over half the cost of the home, review HOH, EITC, and CTC eligibility. (irs.gov)
 
Language access
- IRS supports help in multiple languages, with over‑the‑phone interpreters and translated materials. Ask for interpretation when calling 800‑829‑1040 or at TAC appointments (844‑545‑5640). See IRS language resources. (irs.gov)
 
Application Checklist (print this)
- Government‑issued photo ID (you)
 - Social Security cards (you and kids); ITIN/ATIN letters if applicable
 - Proof your child lived with you (school, medical, daycare records; lease; SNAP/TANF letters)
 - W‑2s, 1099‑NEC/1099‑MISC/1099‑K (self‑employment), 1099‑G (unemployment), 1099‑INT/DIV, 1095‑A (marketplace health)
 - Childcare provider info: name, address, SSN/EIN (use Form W‑10); receipts
 - Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit
 - Last year’s tax return (helpful)
 
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing Married Filing Separately when you could file as Head of Household (and qualify for EITC). Read HOH tests carefully. (irs.gov)
 - Claiming a child who didn’t live with you more than half the year (except special rules). Tie‑breaker rules apply if more than one person can claim the child. (irs.gov)
 - Forgetting Schedule EIC or Schedule 8812; missing child SSN for CTC. (irs.gov)
 - Entering the wrong bank info for direct deposit, causing delays.
 - Not reconciling Form 1095‑A (Premium Tax Credit), which can hold your refund.
 - For care credit: not keeping receipts or provider TIN; if provider refuses, attach a due‑diligence statement as IRS allows. (irs.gov)
 
If your first plan doesn’t work (always have a Plan B)
- Denied EITC/CTC due to missing SSNs? File now with what you qualify for (e.g., EITC without a qualifying child or ODC $500) and amend after SSNs are issued. (eitc.irs.gov)
 - Refund delayed due to PATH Act? Expect updates by late February; most early filers see money by early March. Keep checking “Where’s My Refund.” (irs.gov)
 - Can’t afford a preparer? Use Free File/Direct File or VITA/TCE/AARP; see phones/links above. (irs.gov)
 - Need immediate help with food, heat, or rent? Call 211 and check Feeding South Dakota’s Mobile Food Distribution calendar. (dakotaathome.sd.gov, feedingsouthdakota.org)
 
Ten South Dakota‑specific FAQs
- Does South Dakota have a state EITC or Child Tax Credit?
 
- No. South Dakota has no personal income tax, so there’s no state EITC/CTC/CDCTC. Claim federal credits on your IRS return. (dor.sd.gov)
 
- How do I get free tax help in Sioux Falls or Rapid City?
 
- Use the IRS VITA locator (800‑906‑9887) and AARP Tax‑Aide numbers: Sioux Falls scheduling via 211; Rapid City 605‑574‑1730 (AARP). (dakotaathome.sd.gov, states.aarp.org)
 
- When will I get my refund if I claim EITC/ACTC?
 
- By law, not before mid‑February; most early e‑filers with direct deposit receive refunds by early March if there are no issues. (irs.gov)
 
- My childcare provider won’t give me an SSN/EIN. Can I still claim the care credit?
 
- Yes—document your attempts, report what you know, and attach a statement per IRS instructions; use Form W‑10 to request info. (irs.gov)
 
- I’m separated and didn’t live with my spouse for the last 6 months. Can I get EITC?
 
- Possibly—if you meet the special “separated spouse” rules and have a qualifying child who lived with you over half the year. See Pub. 596 Rule 3. (irs.gov)
 
- Can I file for free?
 
- Yes. If your 2024 AGI was $84,000 or less, use IRS Free File; residents of South Dakota can also use IRS Direct File. (irs.gov)
 
- Where can I get an in‑person IRS appointment in South Dakota?
 
- Call 844‑545‑5640 for the nationwide TAC appointment line (Sioux Falls office). (irs.gov)
 
- Are there SD programs that help with property taxes or sales tax if I’m disabled?
 
- Yes. The Sales & Property Tax Refund for Seniors & Citizens with Disabilities and other relief programs exist—see the South Dakota DOR Relief Programs page; income limits and deadlines apply. Main line: 800‑829‑9188 (Option 1). (dor.sd.gov)
 
- What documents do I need at a VITA site?
 
- Photo ID; Social Security cards; W‑2s/1099s; 1095‑A if marketplace; childcare info; and direct‑deposit details. The VITA site will tell you if anything else is needed. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 
- English isn’t my first language—can the IRS help me in another language?
 
- Yes. IRS offers help in multiple languages by phone and at TACs (with interpreters). Ask when calling 800‑829‑1040 or booking 844‑545‑5640. (irs.gov)
 
Step‑by‑step: how to file and get your credits fast
- Choose your filing path:
 
- Free File/Direct File if AGI ≤ $84,000 (2024). Start at IRS.gov. (irs.gov)
 - VITA/TCE/AARP for in‑person help: 800‑906‑9887 or local numbers above. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 
- Gather your documents (see checklist above).
 - Use the right schedules:
 
- EITC with kids: Schedule EIC
 - CTC/ACTC: Schedule 8812
 - Child/dependent care: Form 2441
 - Education credits: Form 8863
 
- Choose direct deposit for the fastest refund.
 - Track your refund at “Where’s My Refund.” For EITC/ACTC refunds, expect an update after mid‑February and most deposits by early March. (irs.gov)
 
Tables you can scan quickly
Table: 2025 EITC quick thresholds (Single/Head of Household)
| Children | Max credit | No credit if AGI ≥ | 
|---|---|---|
| 3+ | $8,046 | $61,555 | 
| 2 | $7,152 | $57,310 | 
| 1 | $4,328 | $50,434 | 
| 0 | $649 | $19,104 | 
Source: IRS Rev. Proc. 2024‑40. (irs.gov)
Table: 2024 EITC quick thresholds (Single/Head of Household)
| Children | Max credit | No credit if AGI ≥ | 
|---|---|---|
| 3+ | $7,830 | $59,899 | 
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 | 
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 | 
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 | 
Source: IRS EITC 2024 limits. (eitc.irs.gov)
Table: CTC/ACTC at a glance (2025)
| Item | Amount | 
|---|---|
| CTC per qualifying child under 17 | $2,000 | 
| Refundable ACTC cap per child | $1,700 | 
| Earned income threshold for refund calculation | $2,500 | 
| Phaseout thresholds | 200,000∗∗(Single/HOH)/∗∗200,000** (Single/HOH) / **400,000 (MFJ) | 
Sources: IRB 2024‑45; Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
Table: CDCTC snapshot
| AGI | % of eligible expenses | Expense cap (1 child) | Expense cap (2+) | 
|---|---|---|---|
| ≤ $15,000 | 35% | $3,000 | $6,000 | 
| $43,000+ | 20% | $3,000 | $6,000 | 
Source: IRS Pub. 503. (irs.gov)
Table: Refund timing (PATH Act)
| Milestone | Typical date window | 
|---|---|
| IRS accepts e‑file | Late January | 
| EITC/ACTC refunds allowed by law | Mid‑February | 
| “Where’s My Refund” updates for early EITC/ACTC filers | Late February | 
| Most early EITC/ACTC direct deposits (no issues) | Early March | 
Source: IRS refund timing page. (irs.gov)
Table: Free help and key phones
| Service | How to reach | 
|---|---|
| IRS Individuals | 800‑829‑1040 | 
| IRS TAC appointments | 844‑545‑5640 | 
| IRS VITA locator | 800‑906‑9887 / IRS VITA/TCE finder | 
| AARP Tax‑Aide SD (sample: Sioux Falls scheduling) | 211; more numbers in section above | 
| SD DOR (property‑tax refunds & relief) | 800‑829‑9188 (Option 1) | 
| 211 Helpline Center (statewide) | 211 | 
Sources linked above. (irs.gov, dakotaathome.sd.gov, states.aarp.org, dor.sd.gov)
Reality checks, warnings, and tips
- Expect a delay if you claim EITC/ACTC. Don’t count on that money for February rent unless you filed very early; most early deposits arrive in early March. (irs.gov)
 - Keep proof your child lived with you (report cards, medical records, school letters). EITC audits commonly ask for this.
 - If you’re self‑employed, report all income and keep basic records. EITC still applies, but misreporting can get you barred from the credit for 2 or 10 years. See Pub. 596. (irs.gov)
 - Use direct deposit to avoid mail delays.
 - Don’t pay for tax prep you can get free—start with Free File, Direct File, or VITA/TCE/AARP. (irs.gov)
 
What to do next (simple 5‑step plan)
- Check your 2025 eligibility and amounts in this guide.
 - Decide how you’ll file: Free File/Direct File or VITA/TCE/AARP.
 - Gather documents (checklist above).
 - File electronically and choose direct deposit.
 - If your return includes EITC/ACTC, plan on an early‑March refund (if no issues). (irs.gov)
 
Resources by Region (sample contacts)
- Sioux Falls: AARP Tax‑Aide (appointments via 211). IRS TAC appointments 844‑545‑5640. (states.aarp.org, irs.gov)
 - Rapid City/Black Hills: AARP (605‑574‑1730); Cornerstone Rescue Mission (605‑718‑8712). (states.aarp.org, citygatenetwork.org)
 - Aberdeen/Brookings/Pierre: AARP Aberdeen 605‑622‑0750; Brookings 605‑627‑1793; Pierre 605‑224‑7730. (states.aarp.org)
 - Tribal areas: Sinte Gleska University (Mission) VITA 605‑856‑8111; use IRS VITA locator or 800‑906‑9887. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the IRS, South Dakota Department of Revenue, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards and is maintained by researchers—not government employees. We verify links and amounts at publication, monitor policy changes, and update promptly when official rules shift. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Send corrections to info@asinglemother.org.
Key sources cited in this guide include:
- IRS 2025 inflation adjustments (IR‑2024‑273; Rev. Proc. 2024‑40) and EITC/CTC tables. (irs.gov)
 - IRS EITC 2024 limits and Publication 596 (EITC rules). (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
 - Schedule 8812 instructions (ACTC $1,700) and PATH Act refund timing. (irs.gov)
 - Publication 503 (Child & Dependent Care Credit) and provider TIN due‑diligence rules. (irs.gov)
 - IRS Free File/Direct File in 2025 and phone lines for help; TAC appointment line. (irs.gov)
 - SD Department of Revenue (no state income tax; property‑tax relief). (dor.sd.gov)
 - AARP Tax‑Aide SD site phones and 211 Helpline. (states.aarp.org, dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 
Disclaimer
- Program rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines can change. Always verify with the IRS or the South Dakota Department of Revenue before you apply. This guide is for general information, not legal or tax advice. We link only to official and established sources. We never ask for your personal information.
 - Security note: To keep our website secure, we do not collect sensitive data. If you email us, never include your SSN, date of birth, or tax return details. For confidential help, contact the IRS directly at 800‑829‑1040 or book an appointment at 844‑545‑5640. (irs.gov)
 
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