EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in California
California EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2024–2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for single moms in California who need clear, current steps to get every dollar they qualify for this tax season. It covers federal and California credits, exact 2024 amounts and limits, how to file for free, common mistakes, timelines, and where to get in‑person help fast.
Quick Help Box
- File free now: use IRS Direct File (in California), IRS Free File, or California CalFile. If you claim EITC/ACTC, expect refunds no earlier than the first week of March. Links and details below.
- If your 2024 income is under $31,950, check CalEITC, Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), and Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC). Use FTB Form 3514.
- Federal EITC max for 2024: up to 7,830∗∗with3+kids;incomelimitsvary.Investmentincomemustbe≤∗∗7,830** with 3+ kids; income limits vary. Investment income must be ≤ **11,600.
- California YCTC for 2024: up to $1,154 if you qualify for CalEITC and have a child under 6 (special net‑loss rule explained below).
- Free in‑person help (VITA/TCE): call 800‑906‑9887 or dial 211 to find a nearby site. AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669.
- FTB (California) customer service: 800‑852‑5711 (M‑F). IRS: 800‑829‑1040 (M‑F).
- Deadlines: File/pay by April 15, 2025; California automatically extends the filing deadline to October 15, 2025 (payment still due April 15). Disaster relief may change deadlines for some counties.
- Lost W‑2 or need ITIN help? IRS TAC appointment line 844‑545‑5640 (bring ID and documents).
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Tax Year 2024 amounts, filed in 2025)
| Credit | Who May Qualify (high level) | Max Credit (2024) | Key Income Limits (selected) | Refundable? | How to Claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC | Workers with earned income; larger with qualifying children | Up to $7,830 (3+ kids) | HOH/Single: up to 59,899(3+kids);upto59,899 (3+ kids); up to 18,591 (no kids) | Yes | 1040 + Schedule EIC (if claiming kids) (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) |
| CalEITC | CA residents with 1–1–31,950 earned income | Up to $3,644 (3+ kids) | Income ≤ $31,950; ITINs allowed | Yes | CA Form 540 + FTB 3514 (ftb.ca.gov) |
| Young Child Tax Credit (CA) | CalEITC eligible + child under 6 (or special net‑loss rule) | Up to $1,154 | Earned income generally ≤ 31,950(withspecialnet‑lossconditionsfor31,950 (with special net‑loss conditions for 0 or negative income) | Yes | FTB 3514 (YCTC section) (ftb.ca.gov) |
| Foster Youth Tax Credit (CA) | Age 18–25; in CA foster care at 13+; qualify for CalEITC | Up to 1,154pereligibletaxpayer(upto1,154 per eligible taxpayer (up to 2,308 MFJ if both qualify) | Phases out over 26,626;noneat26,626; none at 31,951 | Yes | FTB 3514 (FYTC section) (ftb.ca.gov) |
| Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) | Child under 17 with SSN; income phaseouts apply | Up to 2,000/child;upto2,000/child; up to 1,700 refundable (ACTC) | Phase out starts at 200,000(single/HOH);200,000 (single/HOH); 400,000 (MFJ) | Partially | 1040 + Schedule 8812 (irs.gov) |
| Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit | Child under 13 or disabled dependent; work‑related care costs | Up to 35% of 3,000(one)or3,000 (one) or 6,000 (two+) | % falls to 20% for AGI > $43,000 | Partially (nonrefundable) | Form 2441 (irs.gov) |
| CA Child & Dependent Care Expenses Credit | Same dependents; care in California; AGI ≤ $100,000 | % of federal credit (50% / 43% / 34% based on AGI) | ≤ $100,000 AGI | Nonrefundable | FTB 3506 (ftb.ca.gov) |
| CA Nonrefundable Renter’s Credit | Paid CA rent ≥ half the year; income limits | 60∗∗(single/MFS),∗∗60** (single/MFS), **120 (HOH/MFJ/QW) | ≤ 52,421(single/MFS);≤52,421 (single/MFS); ≤ 104,842 (HOH/MFJ/QW) | No | Form 540 line 46 (or 2EZ/540NR lines) (ftb.ca.gov) |
| Saver’s Credit (federal) | Contribute to IRA/401(k); not a student/dependent | Up to $1,000 (single/HOH) | HOH AGI ≤ $57,375 for any % (2024 tiers) | Nonrefundable | Form 8880 (irs.gov) |
Notes:
- Federal EITC investment income limit is $11,600 for 2024. (irs.gov)
- California credits CalEITC/YCTC/FYTC are on one form: FTB 3514. (ftb.ca.gov)
- IRS holds refunds with EITC/ACTC until mid‑February; earliest likely deposit first week of March (if no issues). (eitc.irs.gov)
- California automatically extends the filing deadline to October 15, 2025 (payment still due April 15, 2025). (ftb.ca.gov)
What’s new or easy to miss (2024 filing in 2025)
- YCTC amount is $1,154 for 2024, with a special net‑loss rule that can help very low‑income or self‑employed moms who had zero or negative income (limits apply). (ftb.ca.gov)
- FYTC remains $1,154 per eligible former/current foster youth aged 18–25 (both spouses can qualify). Verification options and CDSS contact listed below. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Federal EITC 2024 thresholds and amounts changed with inflation; confirm your filing status and child count against the IRS table before filing. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Free filing is bigger in 2025: IRS Direct File is available in 25 states including California, plus IRS Free File (AGI ≤ $84,000) with eight partners. VITA/TCE remains a strong option for in‑person help. (irs.gov)
How to file free today (fastest path to money)
- Use IRS Direct File or IRS Free File for your federal return, then finish your California return:
- IRS: IRS Direct File and other free options — overview and eligibility. (irs.gov)
- IRS Free File partners (AGI ≤ $84,000): start here — IRS Free File: Do your taxes for free. (irs.gov)
- California: File online with the Franchise Tax Board — includes CalFile and e‑file provider finder. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Prefer in‑person help?
- VITA/TCE locator: call 800‑906‑9887 or use the IRS tool (AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669). (eitc.irs.gov)
- United Ways of California: MyFreeTaxes (free filing + referrals). (myfreetaxes.org)
- Bay Area: Free Tax Help Bay Area (map + ITIN help). (uwba.org)
- CalEITC4Me (Golden State Opportunity) site finder + calculator: CalEITC4Me.org. (caleitc4me.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the IRS TAC appointment line 844‑545‑5640 to visit a local IRS office (needed for ITIN or complex issues). For California account issues, call FTB 800‑852‑5711 (see phone options below). (irs.gov, ftb.ca.gov)
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) — 2024 amounts and limits
Most important action first: Check your 2024 income against the IRS EITC table and confirm child rules.
- 2024 maximum EITC amounts:
- No children: $632
- 1 child: $4,213
- 2 children: $6,960
- 3 or more children: 7,830∗∗Incomelimitsdependonfilingstatus;investmentincomemustbe∗∗7,830** Income limits depend on filing status; investment income must be **11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- SSN requirement: You and your children must have valid Social Security numbers for federal EITC. ITINs do not qualify for the federal EITC. (irs.gov)
- How to claim: file Form 1040; attach Schedule EIC if claiming children. Use the IRS EITC Qualification Assistant if unsure. (irs.gov)
- Refund timing: If your return claims EITC or ACTC, the IRS cannot issue your refund before mid‑February; earliest deposits are typically first week of March (if no issues). Track it with Where’s My Refund. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Common hurdles for single moms: head‑of‑household status errors, child lived with you fewer than 6 months, missing school/daycare proof, or the other parent claimed the child.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Get free help at VITA/TCE (800‑906‑9887). If you have a dispute (like an ex claiming your child), go to a Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic or ask the Taxpayer Advocate Service (877‑777‑4778) for guidance. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) — 2024
Most important action first: File your California return and attach FTB Form 3514.
- Who qualifies (simplified): California resident more than half the year, age 18+ (if no qualifying child), earned income 1to1 to 31,950, valid SSN or ITIN for you/spouse/children. Self‑employment counts as earned income for CalEITC. (ftb.ca.gov)
- 2024 CalEITC max credit by children:
- No children: up to $294
- 1 child: up to $1,958
- 2 children: up to $3,239
- 3 or more: up to $3,644 (ftb.ca.gov)
- ITINs welcome: California allows ITINs for CalEITC (and related credits), unlike the federal EITC. (ftb.ca.gov)
- How to claim: File Form 540 and attach FTB 3514 (your software will prompt you). Use the FTB calculator or table to estimate. (ftb.ca.gov)
- If your federal EITC was reduced/disallowed before, follow the questions on FTB 3514; you may still qualify for California. (ftb.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use CalFile or visit a VITA site; if you’re part‑year or have self‑employment, bring records (1099‑NEC/K, bank statements). FTB phone: 800‑852‑5711. (ftb.ca.gov)
California Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) — 2024
Most important action first: If you have a child under 6, do not skip this credit.
- Amount: up to $1,154 per 2024 return. Usually you must qualify for CalEITC and have a child under 6 at year‑end. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Special net‑loss rule (2022+): You may qualify for YCTC even with 0ornegativeearnedincome∗∗ifyouotherwisemeetCalEITC/YCTCrulesandyourtotalwagesandtotalnetlossdonotexceed∗∗0 or negative earned income** if you otherwise meet CalEITC/YCTC rules and your total wages and total net loss do not exceed **34,602 for 2024. This helps some self‑employed and gig workers who had losses. (ftb.ca.gov)
- How to claim: It’s part of FTB 3514. The amount phases out starting at 26,626∗∗ofearnedincomeandisgoneat∗∗26,626** of earned income and is gone at **31,951. (ftb.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Double‑check your child’s age on 12/31/2024 and ensure you completed all YCTC questions in the software. If self‑employed with losses, bring a P&L to VITA so they can apply the net‑loss rule correctly. (ftb.ca.gov)
California Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) — 2024
Most important action first: If you are age 18–25 and were in CA foster care at age 13+, check FYTC.
- Amount: up to 1,154pereligibletaxpayer∗∗(upto∗∗1,154 per eligible taxpayer** (up to **2,308 if both spouses qualify). Must also qualify for CalEITC. Phases out from 26,626∗∗;fullyphasedoutby∗∗26,626**; fully phased out by **31,951 of earned income. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Verification: The easiest way is to check the consent box on FTB 3514 so CDSS can verify. If not, attach a county/state letter or CDSS form. CDSS foster care verification help: 916‑651‑8848, piar@dss.ca.gov. (ftb.ca.gov)
- How to claim: Complete the FYTC section of FTB 3514. (ftb.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If CDSS can’t verify, provide alternate proof (county letter). Watch your FTB notices and respond quickly to avoid delays. (ftb.ca.gov)
Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) + Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) — 2024
Most important action first: If your child is under 17 and has an SSN, check CTC.
- 2024 amounts: up to 2,000∗∗perchild;upto∗∗2,000** per child; up to **1,700 per child can be refundable as ACTC. Phase‑out starts at 200,000∗∗(HOH/Single)or∗∗200,000** (HOH/Single) or **400,000 (MFJ). Claim on Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
- ITIN reminder: Children with only ITINs do not qualify for CTC/ACTC. (irs.gov)
- Refund timing: Returns with ACTC fall under the same mid‑February hold as EITC. (eitc.irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use VITA or a qualified preparer to work through Schedule 8812. If Congress changes the law mid‑season, the IRS will adjust returns already filed. (irs.gov)
Child & Dependent Care Credits (childcare)
Most important action first: If you paid for childcare so you could work or look for work, gather your provider info now.
- Federal (Form 2441): Up to 35% of eligible expenses (3,000∗∗foronechild,∗∗3,000** for one child, **6,000 for two+). The % slides down as income rises (to 20% over $43,000 AGI). Nonrefundable. (irs.gov)
- California (FTB 3506): You must have AGI ≤ 100,000∗∗;caremustbeprovidedinCalifornia.Thestatecreditisapercentageofyourfederalcredit:∗∗50100,000**; care must be provided in California. The state credit is a percentage of your federal credit: **50%** (AGI ≤ **40,000), 43% (AGI 40,001–40,001–70,000), 34% (AGI 70,001–70,001–100,000). Nonrefundable. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Provider details are required (name/SSN/EIN, address, amount paid). Keep receipts; cash payments without proof can be denied. (ftb.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your provider won’t give info, complete what you can and explain your due diligence (as the instructions allow), or ask a VITA site to help document. (ftb.ca.gov)
California Nonrefundable Renter’s Credit
Most important action first: If you paid rent in California for at least half of 2024, check this box.
- Amount: 60∗∗(Single/MFS)or∗∗60** (Single/MFS) or **120 (HOH/MFJ/QW). Income limits: ≤ 52,421∗∗(single/MFS)or≤∗∗52,421** (single/MFS) or ≤ **104,842 (others). Nonrefundable. Claim on Form 540 line 46 (or 2EZ/540NR lines). (ftb.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep your lease and a rent payment summary. If your rent was on a tax‑exempt property (some subsidized housing), you cannot claim this credit. (ftb.ca.gov)
Saver’s Credit (retirement contributions)
- If you contributed to an IRA/401(k) in 2024 and are not a student/dependent, you may qualify for a credit up to 1,000∗∗(single/HOH).HOHAGIlimitsfor2024:501,000** (single/HOH). HOH AGI limits for 2024: 50% tier up to **34,500; 20% tier 34,501–34,501–37,500; 10% tier 37,501–37,501–57,375. Claim on Form 8880. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re near the deadline, remember IRA contributions for 2024 can be made up to April 15, 2025 and still count. (irs.gov)
Real‑world examples (illustrative)
- A mom in Bakersfield with two kids (ages 4 and 8), filing HOH, earned 24,000∗∗in2024(W‑2).Shecouldbeinrangefor:federalEITC(upto∗∗24,000** in 2024 (W‑2). She could be in range for: federal EITC (up to **6,960), CalEITC (up to 3,239∗∗),YCTC(childunder6,∗∗3,239**), YCTC (child under 6, **1,154), and possibly a childcare credit if she paid daycare so she could work. Exact amounts depend on her precise income and expenses; use the IRS and FTB calculators or VITA to nail it. (eitc.irs.gov, ftb.ca.gov)
- A self‑employed mom in San Diego with a 2‑year‑old and a **‑2,000∗∗netlossmaynotgetCalEITC(requiresatleast2,000** net loss may not get CalEITC (requires at least 1 earned income) but could qualify for YCTC using the net‑loss rule if her total wages and total net loss are each ≤ $34,602, and all other rules are met. (ftb.ca.gov)
- A former foster youth in Oakland, age 22, with W‑2 earnings of 19,000∗∗,canqualifyforCalEITCand∗∗FYTC19,000**, can qualify for CalEITC and **FYTC 1,154 (verification required). If she has a child under 6 and qualifies for CalEITC, she may also add YCTC $1,154. (ftb.ca.gov)
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Federal EITC, CTC/ACTC: File Form 1040. If claiming children for EITC, complete Schedule EIC; for CTC/ACTC, complete Schedule 8812. Use Direct File, Free File, or VITA. (irs.gov)
- California credits (CalEITC, YCTC, FYTC): File Form 540 and attach FTB 3514. Software will fill it in; otherwise complete the booklet and tables. (ftb.ca.gov)
- California childcare credit: attach FTB 3506; federal childcare credit uses Form 2441. (ftb.ca.gov, irs.gov)
- Renter’s credit: check the line for Nonrefundable Renter’s Credit on your CA return (Form 540 line 46). (ftb.ca.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Book VITA/TCE. Bring IDs, SSNs/ITINs, and all tax forms. VITA sites must follow IRS due diligence for EITC/CTC and can help you avoid mistakes. (eitc.irs.gov)
Required documents (bring these to your appointment)
- Government photo ID(s) for you (and spouse, if filing jointly).
- SSNs or ITINs for you and children (SSNs required for federal EITC/CTC).
- All income forms: W‑2, 1099‑NEC/MISC/K, 1099‑G (unemployment), 1099‑R, SSA‑1099.
- Childcare provider info (name, address, SSN/EIN, amount paid); receipts.
- Proof child lived with you > 6 months (school/medical/daycare records).
- Rent receipts/lease (for renter’s credit), Form 1095‑A (Covered CA) if applicable.
- Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Claiming the wrong filing status (Head of Household rules are strict; California requires FTB 3532 or your HOH will be denied). (ftb.ca.gov)
- Letting an ex claim your child when your child lived primarily with you; or not keeping school/daycare proof of residency.
- Missing ITIN renewals or using an ATIN for credits that require SSNs (like federal CTC). (irs.gov)
- Forgetting the EITC investment income limit ($11,600 for 2024). (irs.gov)
- Not including childcare provider ID (SSN/EIN) or paying in cash with no receipts. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Skipping YCTC or FYTC when you qualify; not giving CDSS consent or proof for FYTC. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Filing too early with missing forms (like 1095‑A) which can delay or reduce refunds.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you receive a letter, respond by the due date. For California letters about HOH or credits, call 800‑852‑5711 (have your notice number ready). For IRS letters, call 800‑829‑1040. (ftb.ca.gov, irs.gov)
Timelines you can actually use
| Milestone | When |
|---|---|
| Filing deadline (federal & CA) | April 15, 2025 |
| California automatic extension to file (not to pay) | Through October 15, 2025 |
| EITC/ACTC refunds earliest deposit | Typically first week of March (law requires mid‑Feb hold) |
| IRA contribution deadline for 2024 (Saver’s Credit impact) | April 15, 2025 |
| Disaster relief (example: LA County fires) | Some deadlines postponed to October 15, 2025 (check if you’re in a declared area) |
Sources: FTB due dates/extension; IRS EITC/ACTC hold; Saver’s Credit deadlines; FTB disaster relief. (ftb.ca.gov, eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
Where to get help (verified contacts)
- IRS general: 800‑829‑1040 (M–F, 7am–7pm). TAC appointment line 844‑545‑5640 (for in‑person help and ITIN). TTY/TDD 800‑829‑4059. (irs.gov)
- California FTB general: 800‑852‑5711 (M–F), automated line 800‑338‑0505 (24/7). Outside U.S.: 916‑845‑6500. Refund help page available. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Free tax prep: VITA/TCE 800‑906‑9887; AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669; dial 211 to find local sites. (eitc.irs.gov)
Diverse Communities: tailored pointers
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: VITA/TCE sites welcome all families; ask for sites with Sensitivity/ITIN experience. Use the VITA locator or call 800‑906‑9887 and request a site with experience serving LGBTQ+ clients. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising disabled children: Ask VITA for accessibility and disability tax expertise. IRS Accessibility Helpline: 833‑690‑0598. Some credits allow special rules (e.g., childcare credit for disabled dependents). (irs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You may be eligible for MilTax (free filing for service members/veterans) and VITA. See IRS free options overview. (irs.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: California allows ITINs for CalEITC/YCTC/FYTC. For ITIN services, book IRS TAC at 844‑545‑5640; bring original IDs. (ftb.ca.gov, irs.gov)
- Tribal citizens: W‑2 wages and most self‑employment income count for EITC like any other taxpayer; VITA sites often partner with tribal orgs—ask 800‑906‑9887 for nearby sites. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Rural moms with limited access: Use Free File/Direct File from a mobile device; ask 211 for the closest VITA; many United Way coalitions offer remote options. (irs.gov, myfreetaxes.org)
- Single fathers raising kids: All rules above apply—credits are based on income, residency, and child tests, not gender.
- Language access: IRS and FTB websites have Spanish and other language pages; request an interpreter at IRS TAC or VITA. TACs have professional interpretation lines. (irs.gov)
Local organizations and support (California)
- Golden State Opportunity / CalEITC4Me — calculator, site finder, outreach: CalEITC4Me.org. (caleitc4me.org)
- United Ways of California — statewide free filing and referrals: MyFreeTaxes.org and Get Tax Assistance. (myfreetaxes.org, unitedwaysca.org)
- Free Tax Help Bay Area — map of sites, ITIN services: uwba.org/free-tax-help. (uwba.org)
- Catholic Charities VITA (example: Santa Clara County) — in‑person help and ITIN support: TaxEZ program. Check your local Catholic Charities chapter too. (ccscc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 211 from anywhere in California to ask for free tax help locations in your county (United Way partners). (uwfm.org)
Application Checklist (print or screenshot)
- Photo ID(s) and SSN/ITIN cards for you and children.
- All 2024 wage and income forms (W‑2, 1099‑NEC/MISC/K, 1099‑G, SSA‑1099, 1099‑R).
- Childcare receipts and provider details (name, address, SSN/EIN, phone).
- Proof child lived with you > 6 months (school, medical, daycare, landlord letter).
- Rent receipts/lease (for renter’s credit).
- Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit.
- If claiming FYTC: check consent box on FTB 3514 or bring a county/CDSS letter.
- If self‑employed: yearly income/expense summary and 1099s.
Tables for quick scanning
Table 1. 2024 EITC family snapshot (federal)
| Children | Max EITC | HOH/Single income must be less than |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 |
| 3+ | $7,830 | $59,899 |
Source: IRS 2024 EITC income limits & ranges. (eitc.irs.gov)
Table 2. California 2024 CalEITC/YCTC/FYTC quick view
| Children | CalEITC Max | YCTC Max | FYTC Max (per eligible taxpayer) | General income ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $294 | $0 | $1,154 | $31,950 |
| 1 | $1,958 | $1,154 | $1,154 | $31,950 |
| 2 | $3,239 | $1,154 | $1,154 | $31,950 |
| 3+ | $3,644 | $1,154 | $1,154 | $31,950 |
Sources: FTB newsroom CalEITC table; YCTC and FYTC 2024 pages. (ftb.ca.gov)
Table 3. Child & Dependent Care credits (federal and California)
| Program | Max eligible expenses | % of expenses | Income notes | Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal CDCC | 3,000(one)/3,000 (one) / 6,000 (two+) | 35% → 20% (≥$43k AGI = 20%) | Must be work‑related; provider info required | 2441 |
| CA CDCE Credit | Based on federal credit | 50% (≤40kAGI);4340k AGI); 43% (40k–70k);3470k); 34% (70k–$100k) | Care must be in California; AGI ≤ $100k | FTB 3506 |
Sources: IRS Form 2441 instructions; FTB 3506 instructions. (irs.gov, ftb.ca.gov)
Table 4. Deadlines and refund timing (2025 season)
| Item | Date/Timing |
|---|---|
| File and pay (normal) | April 15, 2025 |
| CA automatic extension to file | Through October 15, 2025 (pay by April 15) |
| EITC/ACTC refunds earliest | First week of March (mid‑Feb hold by law) |
Sources: FTB due dates/extension; IRS EITC messaging. (ftb.ca.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
Table 5. Key phone numbers (verified)
| Agency/Service | Number |
|---|---|
| IRS General | 800‑829‑1040 |
| IRS TAC Appointments | 844‑545‑5640 |
| IRS TTY/TDD | 800‑829‑4059 |
| FTB General | 800‑852‑5711 |
| FTB Automated | 800‑338‑0505 |
| VITA/TCE | 800‑906‑9887 |
| AARP Tax‑Aide | 888‑227‑7669 |
Sources: IRS “Let Us Help You”; IRS TAC pages; FTB phone directory; TAS VITA/TCE guidance. (irs.gov, ftb.ca.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
Reality checks, warnings, and pro tips
- Refund delays happen: math errors, SSN/ITIN mismatches, duplicate child claims, or Marketplace (1095‑A) mismatches. E‑file + direct deposit is still your fastest route.
- Keep records for 3 years: school/daycare letters, landlord statements, custody orders, and anything proving residency and support.
- Beware scams: FTB and IRS won’t demand gift cards or threaten arrest by phone. If in doubt, hang up and call FTB (800‑852‑5711) or IRS (800‑829‑1040) directly. (ftb.ca.gov)
- HOH is audited often in CA: always attach FTB 3532. If you forget, FTB can deny your HOH rate. (ftb.ca.gov)
- For ITIN: schedule early (appointments can take weeks). Bring originals; TACs return your documents at the end of your appointment. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact VITA or the Taxpayer Advocate Service (877‑777‑4778). If it’s a California issue, call FTB or send a secure message in MyFTB. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
10 California‑specific FAQs
- Can I get federal EITC with an ITIN?
No. Federal EITC requires valid SSNs. California’s CalEITC/YCTC/FYTC accept ITINs. (irs.gov, ftb.ca.gov) - Do self‑employment earnings count for CalEITC?
Yes. W‑2 wages and net self‑employment income both count for CalEITC. (ftb.ca.gov) - What if I had zero or negative income but have a child under 6?
You might qualify for YCTC using the net‑loss rule if specific limits are met (wages and net loss each ≤ $34,602). (ftb.ca.gov) - When will I get my refund if I claim EITC/ACTC?
The IRS can’t issue refunds before mid‑February; earliest deposits land first week of March if you e‑file and use direct deposit. (eitc.irs.gov) - What if my ex claimed our child and I qualify?
File accurately and expect a notice. Keep school/daycare/medical proof of residency. Ask a VITA or Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic for help. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov) - How do I claim the California childcare credit?
Attach FTB 3506; your AGI must be ≤ $100,000 and care must be in California. The credit is a % of your federal credit. (ftb.ca.gov) - Do renter’s credit amounts vary by county?
No. It’s a fixed 60/60/120 with statewide income limits (see above). (ftb.ca.gov) - I’m a former foster youth (age 19) working part‑time. Do I qualify for FYTC?
If you qualify for CalEITC and meet foster care verification, you may get up to $1,154 (more if both spouses qualify when filing jointly). (ftb.ca.gov) - What if I miss the April 15 deadline?
California gives an automatic extension to October 15, 2025 to file, but you must pay by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest. (ftb.ca.gov) - Where do I get in‑person help fast?
Call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA/TCE) or dial 211. For IRS office appointments, call 844‑545‑5640. (eitc.irs.gov)
What this guide does better than typical Google results
- All 2024 dollar amounts and limits are verified from IRS/FTB and clearly labeled (not 2023 numbers). We also include the YCTC net‑loss option and FYTC details that many pages miss, plus refund hold timelines and direct phone numbers. (eitc.irs.gov, ftb.ca.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from California Franchise Tax Board (FTB), the IRS/USDA/HUD equivalents where relevant to taxes, and established nonprofits. It 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. See our Editorial Policy for methods, update cadence, and accuracy commitments. (ftb.ca.gov)
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48–72 hours per our policy.
Disclaimer
- Program rules and amounts can change. Always verify current amounts, forms, and deadlines with the IRS or California FTB before filing. We provide direct links to official pages throughout this guide.
- Security: Only enter personal data on official .gov sites or trusted tax software. The IRS and FTB will not ask for gift cards or passwords. Report scams to FTB (800‑852‑5711) or the IRS. (ftb.ca.gov)
Sources used (select):
- IRS EITC 2024 tables, limits, and investment income cap; Pub 596. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- IRS EITC refund timing (mid‑Feb hold). (eitc.irs.gov)
- FTB CalEITC/YCTC/FYTC pages and 2024 FTB 3514 booklet. (ftb.ca.gov)
- FTB Child & Dependent Care credit (FTB 3506) and CA % rates. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Federal Child & Dependent Care (Form 2441) and Pub 503. (irs.gov)
- CA Nonrefundable Renter’s Credit 2024 amounts and income limits. (ftb.ca.gov)
- Saver’s Credit 2024 AGI thresholds (Form 8880 page). (irs.gov)
- Filing options (IRS Direct File/Free File; FTB online filing). (irs.gov, ftb.ca.gov)
- Contact numbers and TAC appointment line. (irs.gov, ftb.ca.gov)
If you need a hand, start with the Quick Help Box at the top and use the links to file free or book in‑person help. You’ve got this.
🏛️More California Resources for Single Mothers
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