EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Arizona
Arizona EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers (2025): The No‑Fluff, Do‑This‑Now Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is written for single moms in Arizona who need clear steps, exact dollar amounts, links to official sources, and honest timelines. No jargon. No filler. Just what to do, when, and where.
Before we start, a reality check: refunds with the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are held by law until mid‑February each year, and state refunds can also take time while agencies verify information. Plan your bills accordingly, file early, and use direct deposit. (irs.gov, azdor.gov)
Quick Help Box
- Free, safe filing options: IRS Direct File + Arizona FileYourStateTaxes (state-integrated). Start at the IRS, then jump to AZ automatically. Eligibility has expanded for 2025. (azdor.gov)
- Most important credits for single moms this year: federal EITC, Child Tax Credit (CTC/ACTC), Child & Dependent Care Credit, Premium Tax Credit (health insurance), and Arizona’s Dependent Tax Credit, Family Income Tax Credit, Increased Excise Tax Credit, and Property Tax Credit (Form 140PTC). Official amounts and links are below.
- Need in‑person help? Call IRS TAC appointments at 844‑545‑5640. For Arizona tax help, call ADOR at (602) 255‑3381 or (800) 352‑4090 (toll‑free). Free local VITA programs: Phoenix VITA (602) 534‑8359; Tucson United Way VITA info line (520) 333‑5810. (irs.gov, azdor.gov, phoenix.gov, library.pima.gov)
- Track refunds: federal “Where’s My Refund?” and Arizona’s refund tracker. Expect PATH Act holds until mid‑February for EITC/ACTC; many AZ e‑file refunds arrive within “a couple of weeks” after acceptance; paper returns can take 8–10 weeks. (irs.gov, azdor.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (bookmark this)
| Credit/Program | 2024 Amounts (filed in 2025) | 2025 Amounts (filed in 2026) | Refundable? | Where to claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC (3+ kids) | Up to $7,830 | Up to $8,046 | Yes | Form 1040; see EITC Assistant |
| Federal EITC (2 / 1 / 0 kids) | Up to 6,960/6,960 / 4,213 / $632 | Up to 7,152/7,152 / 4,328 / $649 | Yes | Form 1040 |
| Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) | Up to 2,000∗∗perchild;upto∗∗2,000** per child; up to **1,700 refundable (ACTC) | Up to 2,000∗∗perchild;upto∗∗2,000** per child; up to **1,700 refundable | Partially (ACTC) | Schedule 8812 |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit | Up to 3,000∗∗(onechild)or∗∗3,000** (one child) or **6,000 (two+); 20–35% of costs | Same | No (for most filers) | Form 2441 |
| Premium Tax Credit (ACA) | Enhanced subsidies continue; 2024 affordability benchmark 8.39% | 2025 affordability benchmark 9.02% | Yes | Form 8962 |
| AZ Dependent Tax Credit | 100∗∗perdependentunder17;∗∗100** per dependent under 17; **25 age 17+ (phase‑out at higher income) | Same | No | AZ Form 140 (Dependent section) |
| AZ Family Income Tax Credit | 40∗∗perperson;max∗∗40** per person; max **240 (HOH) / $120 (Single/MFS), with strict income caps | Same | No | AZ Form 140 worksheet |
| AZ Increased Excise Tax Credit | 25∗∗perperson;max∗∗25** per person; max **100 per household (income‑tested) | Same | Yes (when filed on 140PTC/140ET) | AZ Form 140 or 140ET/140PTC |
| AZ Property Tax Credit (140PTC) | Up to $502 if age 65+ or on SSI with very low income | Same | Yes | AZ Form 140PTC |
| AZ QCO Charity Credit | Up to 470∗∗(2024)single/HOH;∗∗470** (2024) single/HOH; **495 (2025) | See at right | No | AZ Form 321 |
| AZ Foster QCO Credit | Up to 587∗∗(2024)single/HOH;∗∗587** (2024) single/HOH; **618 (2025) | See at right | No | AZ Form 352 |
| AZ Public School Credit | 200∗∗single/HOH;∗∗200** single/HOH; **400 MFJ | Same | No | AZ Form 322 |
| AZ Original STO Credit | 731∗∗(2024)single/HOH;∗∗731** (2024) single/HOH; **769 (2025) | See at right | No | AZ Form 323 |
Sources: IRS EITC/CTC/CDCC/PTC guidance; ARS and ADOR program pages (linked in each section below). (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
How this guide beats the usual search results
- We include both 2024 and 2025 EITC/CTC numbers from the IRS (most pages show only last year’s amounts).
- We cover Arizona’s lesser‑known refundable Property Tax Credit and the Increased Excise Tax Credit with links and caps (often missing in other guides).
- We give direct state and federal phone numbers, VITA sites in Phoenix/Tucson, TAC appointment line, and refund timelines from ADOR and IRS. (azdor.gov, irs.gov, phoenix.gov, icstucson.org)
Federal credits every Arizona single mom should check first
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): biggest cash boost for working single moms
Action first: check your eligibility in minutes with the IRS EITC Assistant, then file early with direct deposit. If you claim EITC/ACTC, your federal refund cannot be issued before mid‑February. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
Key numbers:
- Tax Year 2024 (file in 2025): Max EITC is 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (0). Income limits (HOH/single) are 59,899/59,899 / 55,768 / 49,084/49,084 / 18,591 respectively. Investment income must be $11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Tax Year 2025 (file in 2026): Max EITC is 8,046∗∗(3+kids),∗∗8,046** (3+ kids), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (0). Top AGI to qualify (HOH/single) is 61,555/61,555 / 57,310 / 50,434/50,434 / 19,104. Investment income limit is $11,950. (irs.gov)
Eligibility basics:
- You must have earned income, a valid SSN (you and kids), file an eligible status (Head of Household is common; special rules exist for certain separated spouses filing MFS), and meet income/investment caps. (irs.gov)
- Common disqualifiers: filing Form 2555, too much investment income, or claiming a child who doesn’t meet the IRS “qualifying child” tests. (irs.gov)
Real‑world example:
- Tiana files Head of Household with two kids and $31,500 earned income. For 2024 she qualifies for a sizable EITC (amount depends on exact earnings), and her refund will be held until mid‑February due to the PATH Act hold. Expect an updated “Where’s My Refund?” status by late February. (irs.gov)
How to apply:
- File Form 1040. Use IRS Direct File (if eligible) or Free File. Keep school/medical records handy if the IRS asks you to verify your child. (azdor.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your income is slightly too high or you don’t meet the child rules, check the Arizona Family Income Tax Credit and Dependent Tax Credit (below), and be sure you’re filing Head of Household if eligible. Book free VITA help in Phoenix (602‑534‑8359) or Tucson (520‑333‑5810) to review options. (phoenix.gov, library.pima.gov)
Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
Action first: if your child was under 17 at year‑end and has a valid SSN, claim CTC on Schedule 8812. For 2024 and 2025, up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchild;upto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child; up to **1,700 may be refundable as the ACTC. Refunds with ACTC are also held until mid‑February. Income phaseout starts at 200,000∗∗(single/HOH)and∗∗200,000** (single/HOH) and **400,000 (MFJ). (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a child doesn’t qualify for CTC, you may qualify for the Credit for Other Dependents ($500, nonrefundable). File Schedule 8812. Free help: IRS TAC appointment line 844‑545‑5640. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credit (work‑related child care)
Action first: gather provider info (name, address, EIN/SSN) and your receipts.
- For 2024 and 2025, you can claim 20–35% of up to 3,000∗∗inexpensesforonechild,∗∗3,000** in expenses for one child, **6,000 for two or more. Generally nonrefundable, but still lowers your tax. Use Form 2441. (irs.gov)
Reality check: you must have earned income and pay for care so you can work or look for work. Married filing separately has tight rules; see the instructions. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you use a dependent care FSA at work (up to $5,000 pre‑tax), that can be better than claiming the credit. Keep FSA statements for your records. (irs.gov)
Premium Tax Credit (Marketplace/ACA health plans)
Action first: if you or your kids are on Healthcare.gov coverage, make sure your income is accurate so your advance credit isn’t overpaid.
- Refundable credit reconciled on Form 8962. For 2025, the employer‑coverage affordability benchmark used by the IRS is 9.02% (was 8.39% for 2024). If your self‑only employer plan costs more than that percentage of household income, your family may qualify for PTC. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Report changes in income/family size to the Marketplace right away to prevent repayment at tax time. See IRS PTC basics and Q&A. (irs.gov)
Education credits (if you’re in school)
Action first: grab your Form 1098‑T and compare:
- American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): up to 2,500∗∗pereligiblestudent;402,500** per eligible student; 40% (up to **1,000) is refundable; four years max; income limits apply.
- Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): up to $2,000 per return; unlimited years; nonrefundable; income limits apply. (irs.gov)
File Form 8863 with your 1040. See IRS Pub. 970 for full rules. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask a VITA site to compare AOTC vs. LLC for you (they’ll pick the bigger benefit). Phoenix VITA (602) 534‑8359; Tucson (520) 333‑5810. (phoenix.gov, library.pima.gov)
Arizona‑specific credits and what most guides miss
Arizona Dependent Tax Credit (state)
Action first: list all dependents on AZ Form 140 exactly as the instructions require.
- Amounts: 100∗∗perdependentunder17;∗∗100** per dependent under 17; **25 for dependents 17+. Phased out at higher incomes; see Form 140 booklet for details. (azdor.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If income is too high for this credit, see the donation‑based credits below, which can still reduce state tax (nonrefundable, but many allow carryforward). (azdor.gov)
Arizona Family Income Tax Credit (low‑income)
Action first: if your income is low, don’t skip this—it’s small but real.
- 40perperson∗∗(you,spouseiffilingjointly,eachdependent)withmaximums:∗∗40 per person** (you, spouse if filing jointly, each dependent) with maximums: **240 for Head of Household or MFJ, 120∗∗forSingle/MFS.YoumustbeunderstrictAGIlimitsthatvarywithfilingstatusandnumberofdependents(forexample,HOHwithonedependent:∗∗120** for Single/MFS. You must be under strict AGI limits that vary with filing status and number of dependents (for example, HOH with one dependent: **20,000; with three dependents: $23,800). Credit is nonrefundable. Statute: ARS §43‑1073. (azleg.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you are 65+ or receive SSI and paid rent/property tax, check the Property Tax Credit (next). If you don’t need a full AZ return, Form 140ET can be used just to claim the excise credit. (azdor.gov)
Increased Excise Tax Credit (state)
Action first: see if you qualify for this small but refundable help.
- Amount: 25perperson∗∗,upto∗∗25 per person**, up to **100 per household. Available to certain low‑income filers; can be claimed on your Arizona return or on Form 140ET if you don’t file a return. (azdor.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re also eligible for 140PTC (below), use that form instead—it includes the excise credit section so you don’t have to file both. (azdor.gov)
Arizona Property Tax Credit (Form 140PTC) — refundable
Action first: if you’re 65+ or received SSI and paid rent or property tax on your main home, check this now.
- Max credit up to $502 depending on very low household income; renters need Form 201 from the landlord to show the property tax portion of rent. Due by April 15, 2025 for tax year 2024 claims; similar dates next season. Use Form 140PTC (includes the excise credit). (taxformfinder.org, azdor.gov, ptaconsumers.aarpfoundation.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re under 65 and not on SSI, this specific credit won’t fit. Double‑check eligibility with ADOR Customer Care (602) 255‑3381 / (800) 352‑4090. (azdor.gov)
Arizona donation‑based credits (reduce state tax dollar‑for‑dollar)
These do not pay you cash—you must donate first—so use only if you owe AZ income tax.
- Qualifying Charitable Organizations (QCO): Max donation credit for single/HOH is 470(TY2024)∗∗and∗∗470 (TY 2024)** and **495 (TY 2025). Use Form 321. (azdor.gov)
- Qualifying Foster Care Charitable Organizations (QFCO): Max 587(TY2024)∗∗;∗∗587 (TY 2024)**; **618 (TY 2025) for single/HOH. Use Form 352. (azdor.gov)
- Public School Tax Credit (extracurriculars/fees paid to public schools): 200∗∗single/HOH;∗∗200** single/HOH; **400 MFJ. CTDS number required. Use Form 322. (azdor.gov)
- School Tuition Organization credits (private K‑12 scholarships): “Original” credit max 731(2024)∗∗single/HOHand∗∗731 (2024)** single/HOH and **769 (2025); there is also a separate “Certified/Switcher” credit with different annual caps (check ADOR for current year amounts). Use Forms 323/348. (azdor.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If cash is tight, skip donation credits and prioritize refundable credits (federal EITC/ACTC, AZ 140PTC/excise). Donation credits are useful if you have state tax due and can front the money during the year. (azdor.gov)
Does Arizona have a state EITC?
No. Arizona does not have its own EITC as of 2025. A 2022 proposal did not pass. Focus on the federal EITC plus Arizona’s credits above. (taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org)
One‑time 2023 Arizona Families Tax Rebate (FYI)
This program is closed, but if you received it in 2024, Arizona says it’s not taxable by the state but is taxable on your 2024 federal return; ADOR issued Forms 1099‑MISC. (azdor.gov)
Step‑by‑step: file free and faster in Arizona
- IRS Direct File + Arizona FileYourStateTaxes: If you qualify, file your federal return through IRS Direct File, then click through to Arizona’s FileYourStateTaxes—your AZ return will prefill. It’s mobile‑friendly and free. (azdor.gov)
- AZ Free File Alliance: If your AGI is $84,000 or less, you may qualify for free brand‑name software through the IRS/ADOR partnership (use the links on ADOR’s page so you don’t get upsold). (azdor.gov)
Refund timelines and deadlines you should plan around
- Federal: With EITC/ACTC, the IRS cannot issue refunds before mid‑February; many early filers see their refund by early March when choosing direct deposit and if no issues arise. Track progress at Where’s My Refund. (irs.gov)
- Arizona: After your e‑file is accepted, many state refunds process “within a couple of weeks.” Paper returns: allow 8–10 weeks. Check status at AZTaxes.gov. (azdor.gov)
Tables you can use right now
Table A — Federal EITC (Tax Year 2024)
| Qualifying Children | Max Credit | Max Income (Single/HOH) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 or more | $7,830 | $59,899 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 |
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 |
Investment income must be $11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov)
Table B — Federal EITC (Tax Year 2025)
| Qualifying Children | Max Credit | Max Income (Single/HOH) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 or more | $8,046 | $61,555 |
| 2 | $7,152 | $57,310 |
| 1 | $4,328 | $50,434 |
| 0 | $649 | $19,104 |
Investment income must be $11,950 or less (TY 2025). (irs.gov)
Table C — Arizona credits at a glance
| Credit | Amounts for Single/HOH | Refundable? | Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dependent Tax Credit | 100∗∗under17;∗∗100** under 17; **25 age 17+ (phase‑out applies) | No | AZ Form 140 (Dependent section) |
| Family Income Tax Credit | 40∗∗perperson;max∗∗40** per person; max **240 HOH | No | AZ Form 140 worksheet |
| Increased Excise Tax Credit | 25∗∗perperson;max∗∗25** per person; max **100 per household | Yes (via 140PTC/140ET) | 140 / 140ET / 140PTC |
| Property Tax Credit (140PTC) | Up to $502 (income‑tested; 65+ or SSI) | Yes | 140PTC + (renters need Form 201) |
| QCO Charity Credit | Up to 470(2024)∗∗;∗∗470 (2024)**; **495 (2025) | No | Form 321 |
| QFCO Credit | Up to 587(2024)∗∗;∗∗587 (2024)**; **618 (2025) | No | Form 352 |
| Public School Credit | $200 (single/HOH) | No | Form 322 |
| Original STO Credit | 731(2024)∗∗;∗∗731 (2024)**; **769 (2025) | No | Form 323 |
See ADOR program pages for details. (azdor.gov)
Table D — Filing calendar and realistic timelines (2025 season)
| Item | Federal | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| E‑file open | Late January (IRS announces exact date) | Follows IRS open date |
| EITC/ACTC refund hold | Through mid‑February | N/A (state processes separately) |
| Typical e‑file refund timing | Most in <21 days after acceptance (EITC/ACTC: early March) | “A couple of weeks” after acceptance for many returns |
| Paper return timing | 6–8+ weeks | 8–10 weeks |
Sources: IRS and ADOR refund timing pages. (eitc.irs.gov, azdor.gov)
Table E — Application checklist (bring these to VITA or keep next to you if DIY)
| Category | Documents |
|---|---|
| Identity | Photo ID; SSNs/ITINs for you and kids |
| Income | All W‑2s, 1099s, self‑employment records |
| Credits: kids | Birthdates, school/daycare records if asked; provider info (name/EIN) for Child & Dependent Care |
| Health | Form 1095‑A (Marketplace) |
| Education | Form 1098‑T; receipts for books/required materials |
| Banking | Routing/account numbers for direct deposit |
| Arizona‑specific | Rent receipts + Form 201 (for 140PTC renters); County/CTDS numbers for public school credit; donation receipts (QCO/QFCO/STO) |
Table F — Who to call (official)
| Agency | Why call | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| IRS (individuals) | General questions | 800‑829‑1040 |
| IRS TAC appointments | In‑person help; ITIN document review | 844‑545‑5640 |
| Arizona Department of Revenue | State filing/questions/refund status | (602) 255‑3381 (Phoenix) / (800) 352‑4090 (toll‑free AZ) |
| Phoenix VITA | Free tax prep | (602) 534‑8359 |
| Tucson/United Way VITA info line | Free tax prep | (520) 333‑5810 |
Official sources: IRS help pages and ADOR Contact Us. (irs.gov, azdor.gov, phoenix.gov, library.pima.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Claiming EITC with a child who doesn’t meet residency or relationship rules (this is the #1 cause of audits and delays). (irs.gov)
- Forgetting the EITC investment income cap (11,600∗∗for2024;∗∗11,600** for 2024; **11,950 for 2025). (irs.gov)
- Missing the Arizona Family Income Tax Credit because it’s small—your software should flag it, but double‑check the worksheet. (azdor.gov)
- Donating for Arizona charity/school credits when you won’t owe state tax this year (credits are mostly nonrefundable—plan cash flow carefully). (azdor.gov)
- Waiting on rent/property records for 140PTC until April—get Form 201 from your landlord early. (azdor.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the IRS/ADOR flags your return, respond quickly. For IRS or debt issues under tight budgets, ask a Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) for help (free or low cost). Use the LITC map to find a clinic near you. (irs.gov)
Real‑world scenarios
- “I have two kids, work part‑time, and buy Marketplace coverage.”
You may qualify for EITC (see Table A/B), partial CTC/ACTC (up to $1,700 refundable per child), and the Premium Tax Credit; careful with income updates to Healthcare.gov so you don’t owe at tax time. (irs.gov) - “My mom (65) lives with me; I paid rent all year.”
Mom may qualify for 140PTC if she meets low income limits and paid rent/property tax; you also may claim the Credit for Other Dependents if she’s your dependent. (azdor.gov) - “I can’t afford a preparer.”
Phoenix VITA (602‑534‑8359) prepares and e‑files for households with incomes typically 67,000–67,000–79,000 or less (site‑specific). Tucson United Way VITA line (520‑333‑5810) posts times/locations. Or use IRS Direct File + Arizona FileYourStateTaxes for free. (phoenix.gov, icstucson.org, azdor.gov)
Diverse communities: targeted tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: If your legal filing status or dependents changed, update the IRS and Social Security records early (name/SSN). VITA sites can help ensure HOH status and EITC child rules are entered correctly. TACs offer interpretation and in‑person assistance by appointment (844‑545‑5640). (irs.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities: You may qualify for the Child & Dependent Care Credit even if not working when counted as a student/disabled under Form 2441 rules; keep documentation. LITCs can assist if IRS correspondence becomes overwhelming. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services has Benefits Counselors statewide—free help coordinating benefits that affect your taxes and credits: 602‑535‑1215. (dvs.az.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: EITC requires valid SSNs for you and your qualifying children. If you need an ITIN, TACs in Glendale, Mesa, Phoenix‑Central, Tucson, and Yuma offer in‑person ITIN document review by appointment (844‑545‑5640). For non‑CTC dependents, the Credit for Other Dependents may apply. (irs.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Several VITA sites serve Indian Country (e.g., Chinle, Window Rock, Sells, Sacaton, Whiteriver). Contact sites listed by the IRS or call your tribal finance office. Tohono O’odham Nation CDFI VITA: (520) 383‑0790. (irs.gov, cdfiton.org)
- Rural single moms: If you can’t reach a VITA site in person, use IRS Direct File if eligible or 211 Arizona for nearby help (phone, text, or web). 211 is free and multilingual. (es.211arizona.org)
- Single fathers: All credits here apply equally if you meet the rules; most errors involve Head of Household and qualifying child tests—use the IRS Assistant or VITA.
- Language access: IRS offers help in 350+ languages by phone: Spanish 800‑829‑1040; all other languages 833‑553‑9895. Arizona 211 offers English/Spanish and real‑time interpretation. (irs.gov, es.211arizona.org)
Local help in Arizona (statewide and regional)
- Arizona Department of Revenue Customer Care: (602) 255‑3381 or (800) 352‑4090. Refund status: AZTaxes.gov. (azdor.gov)
- Phoenix VITA: appointments and DIY support; (602) 534‑8359; city website lists sites and checklists. (phoenix.gov)
- Tucson & Southern Arizona VITA: United Way info line (520) 333‑5810 and ICS VITA (schedule listed each season). (icstucson.org)
- Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinics: find one near you via USPS ZIP search (TAS LITC map). (irs.gov)
- 211 Arizona (Solari): dial 2‑1‑1 or visit 211arizona.org for nearby tax help and emergency resources. (es.211arizona.org)
How to apply (fast steps you can copy)
- Federal EITC/CTC: File Form 1040 with Schedule 8812 (CTC) and let software compute EITC. Use the EITC Assistant if unsure. If claiming without a qualifying child, check the age and residency rules first. (irs.gov)
- Child & Dependent Care Credit: Collect provider EIN/SSN and complete Form 2441. If you used a dependent care FSA, coordinate carefully—your FSA dollars reduce the expenses you can claim. (irs.gov)
- Premium Tax Credit: You must reconcile APTC on Form 8962 every year if you got Marketplace help, even if you usually don’t file. (irs.gov)
- Arizona Dependent/Family/Excise/Property credits: Use AZ Form 140 worksheets. For Property Tax Credit, file Form 140PTC (or include it with your 140) and attach Form 201 if you rent. (azdor.gov)
What to do if your refund is delayed
- Federal EITC/ACTC: Don’t expect funds before mid‑February. “Where’s My Refund?” usually updates by late February for early filers; many see deposits by early March. (irs.gov)
- Arizona: E‑filed returns often finish in “a couple of weeks” after acceptance; paper returns 8–10 weeks. If ADOR sends a letter, respond quickly; processing resumes and can take ~six more weeks. (azdor.gov)
FAQs (Arizona‑specific, 10 quick answers)
- Can I get EITC if I’m legally married but separated?
Maybe. A special rule lets some separated spouses claim EITC even if filing MFS, but the requirements are strict. Consider Head of Household if you qualify. (irs.gov) - What’s the fastest way to file for free in Arizona?
IRS Direct File (if eligible) and then FileYourStateTaxes (state integration). Or ADOR’s Free File Alliance (AGI $84,000 or less). (azdor.gov) - Does Arizona have its own EITC?
No. Use the federal EITC and state credits listed here. (taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org) - I heard about the Arizona Families Tax Rebate. Can I still get it?
It was one‑time (2023). If you received it in 2024, it’s federally taxable for TY 2024 but not taxable in Arizona. (azdor.gov) - Are Arizona charity/school credits refundable?
No. They reduce state tax you owe; most unused amounts carry forward. (azdor.gov) - How do I claim the Arizona Property Tax Credit as a renter?
File Form 140PTC and attach Form 201 from your landlord to show the property tax share in your rent. Max credit up to $502 for very low‑income seniors or SSI recipients. (azdor.gov, taxformfinder.org) - What’s the Arizona personal income tax rate?
Flat 2.5% for 2024 and beyond; use ADOR’s 2024 highlights for reference. (azdor.gov) - How do I contact ADOR?
(602) 255‑3381 (Phoenix) or (800) 352‑4090 (toll‑free). Live chat and email are available on the ADOR site. (azdor.gov) - Where can I get free in‑person help near me?
Phoenix VITA (602) 534‑8359; Tucson United Way VITA (520) 333‑5810; AARP Tax‑Aide locations via your county library; IRS TAC appointments 844‑545‑5640. (phoenix.gov, library.pima.gov) - How long will my Arizona refund take?
Many e‑file refunds process in “a couple of weeks” after acceptance. Paper returns: 8–10 weeks plus mail time. Track at AZTaxes.gov. (azdor.gov)
What to do right now (priority list)
- File electronically with direct deposit (Direct File + FileYourStateTaxes if eligible).
- Gather documents using the checklist above; don’t wait on landlord Form 201.
- If cash is tight, prioritize refundable credits (federal EITC/ACTC, 140PTC, excise credit).
- Book free help if anything is unclear (phone numbers above).
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Arizona Department of Revenue, IRS, 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 amounts and forms on the official IRS and Arizona Department of Revenue websites before filing.
- This guide is informational only and not legal or tax advice.
- For your security, never email full SSNs or bank details; use official portals or verified phone lines only.
Security tips:
- Use strong, unique passwords for IRS/ADOR accounts.
- Enable multi‑factor authentication where offered.
- Avoid public Wi‑Fi when entering tax or banking information.
Sources (selected)
- Federal EITC 2024 amounts and limits; IRS “Press/Partner” factsheets. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Federal EITC 2025 amounts and investment income limit; IRS IRB 2024‑45. (irs.gov)
- ACTC refundable cap $1,700 (TY 2024/2025). (irs.gov)
- Child & Dependent Care Credit rules (Form 2441 instructions). (irs.gov)
- Premium Tax Credit basics and affordability benchmarks (8.39% 2024; 9.02% 2025). (irs.gov)
- Education credits (AOTC/LLC) and Pub. 970. (irs.gov)
- Arizona Dependent Tax Credit; ADOR Deductions & Exemptions. (azdor.gov)
- Arizona Family Income Tax Credit statute (ARS §43‑1073). (azleg.gov)
- Increased Excise Tax Credit; ADOR tax credits page. (azdor.gov)
- AZ Property Tax Credit (Form 140PTC) and renter Form 201. (azdor.gov)
- QCO/QFCO 2024–2025 limits; ADOR pages. (azdor.gov)
- Public School Credit limits. (azdor.gov)
- Original STO credit limits (2024/2025). (azdor.gov)
- No Arizona state EITC; TCWF Arizona page. (taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org)
- ADOR contact/refund timelines and trackers. (azdor.gov)
- IRS TAC and language access lines. (irs.gov)
- Phoenix VITA; Tucson VITA; AARP/Library listings. (phoenix.gov, library.pima.gov)
- VITA sites serving Indian Country; TON CDFI VITA. (irs.gov, cdfiton.org)
If anything on this page looks out of date or a link is broken, please email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it fast.
🏛️More Arizona Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arizona
- 📋 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
