EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Connecticut
Connecticut EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, numbers-first guide to every major tax credit and refund you can use as a single mother in Connecticut for tax years 2024 and 2025. Every figure below is from official sources, with links so you can verify quickly.
Quick Help Box
- File both your federal and Connecticut returns to get all refunds (EITC and CT EITC are claimed through your regular returns). For free in‑person help, call IRS VITA at 800‑906‑9887 or dial CT 2‑1‑1 to locate nearby sites. (irs.gov, uwc.211ct.org)
- Connecticut’s EITC equals 40% of your federal EITC. If you qualify for the federal EITC, you likely qualify for CT EITC, too. (portal.ct.gov)
- Maximum federal EITC (Tax Year 2024): up to 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (0). Connecticut adds 40% of whatever your federal EITC is. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) remains up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchild;therefundableAdditionalChildTaxCredit(ACTC)is∗∗upto2,000** per qualifying child; the refundable Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) is **up to 1,700 per child for 2024. For 2025, the refundable limit remains $1,700 under current IRS guidance. (irs.gov)
- Refund timing if you claim EITC/ACTC: by law, IRS can’t release these refunds before mid‑February; many direct deposits land by the first week of March if you e‑file and choose direct deposit. Track it in “Where’s My Refund?” (irs.gov)
- CT Property Tax Credit: up to $300 (nonrefundable) on your 2024 CT return for taxes paid on your primary home and/or vehicle; income-based reduction applies. Claim it on Schedule 3 of Form CT‑1040. (taxformfinder.org)
- Health insurance savings: Premium Tax Credits (marketplace/Access Health CT) continue through plan year 2025 under current law; open enrollment typically runs Nov 1–Jan 15; enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1 coverage. Call Access Health CT at 855‑805‑4325. (portal.ct.gov, agency.accesshealthct.com)
- CT’s budget for FY 2026–2027 adds a $250 refundable benefit routed through the EITC framework for working families with children (implementation details come from DRS). Watch CT’s official updates during filing season. (portal.ct.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (2024–2025)
| Credit | Who qualifies (high level) | Max amount (latest official) | How to claim | Key timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC (2024) | Low–moderate earned income; SSNs required; income limits vary by kids | Up to 7,830(3+);7,830 (3+); 6,960 (2); 4,213(1);4,213 (1); 632 (0) | IRS Form 1040; EIC section | Refunds with EITC/ACTC held until mid‑Feb; most deposit by early March if no issues |
| CT EITC (2024+) | Must qualify for federal EITC; full‑year CT resident | 40% of federal EITC | Form CT‑1040 + Schedule CT‑EITC | CT DRS issues after your state return processes |
| Federal CTC/ACTC (2024) | Child under 17 with SSN; income phaseouts | Up to 2,000perchild;upto2,000 per child; up to 1,700 refundable (ACTC) | Schedule 8812 with Form 1040 | ACTC refund subject to mid‑Feb PATH hold |
| Federal CTC/ACTC (2025) | Same core rules (unless Congress changes law) | Refundable part remains up to $1,700/child per IRS IRB 2024‑45 | Schedule 8812 (TY2025 forms) | Same PATH Act timing expected |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit | Work‑related care for child <13 or disabled dependent | 20%–35% of up to 3,000(onechild)/3,000 (one child) / 6,000 (2+) | Form 2441 | When your return is processed |
| CT Property Tax Credit (2024 CT return) | CT residents paying local property tax on home/vehicle; income‑based reduction | Up to $300 per return; nonrefundable | CT‑1040, Schedule 3 | When your CT return is processed |
Sources: IRS Publication 596 and EITC pages; CT DRS; IRS Schedule 8812 instructions; IRS IRB 2024‑45; IRS Pub 503/Form 2441; CT‑1040 instructions. (eitc.irs.gov, portal.ct.gov, irs.gov, taxformfinder.org)
Start Here: The fastest path to your biggest legal refund
- File a complete federal return electronically and select direct deposit. This speeds up both your IRS refund and your CT EITC (since CT mirrors your federal EITC). Use free, IRS‑certified help if costs are a barrier: VITA/TCE (800‑906‑9887) or AARP Tax‑Aide (888‑227‑7669). You can also dial 2‑1‑1 in Connecticut for local sites. (irs.gov, aarp.org, uwc.211ct.org)
- If you claim EITC or ACTC, don’t expect money before mid‑February—this is a federal fraud‑prevention law (PATH Act). Many early filers see deposits by the first week of March if no issues. Check “Where’s My Refund?” daily, not hourly. (irs.gov)
- After federal acceptance, file your CT return in myconneCT and claim CT EITC (Schedule CT‑EITC) and the Property Tax Credit (Schedule 3). For help or appointments with DRS, call 860‑297‑5962 or 800‑382‑9463. (portal.ct.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If returns are flagged, respond promptly to any IRS or DRS letters. If you need advocacy, Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) can help; ask VITA/TCE for a referral or dial 2‑1‑1. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, uwc.211ct.org)
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): 2024 and 2025
Most important actions:
- Check the 2024 income limits now and file even if you don’t “normally” file. If you had earnings, you could get a large refund. Use the IRS EITC Assistant to pre‑check. (eitc.irs.gov)
2024 eligibility and maximums (returns filed in 2025)
- Income limits (earned income and AGI must each be below): 59,899∗∗(3+kids),∗∗59,899** (3+ kids), **55,768 (2), 49,084∗∗(1),∗∗49,084** (1), **18,591 (0). Investment income must be $11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Maximum EITC amounts: 7,830∗∗(3+),∗∗7,830** (3+), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (none). (eitc.irs.gov)
2025 planning numbers (returns filed in 2026)
IRS inflation adjustments for 2025 raise the plateau amounts slightly:
- Max credit: 8,046∗∗(3+),∗∗8,046** (3+), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (none). Earned income “plateau” amounts and phaseouts are updated in IRB 2024‑45. Investment income limit: $11,950. (irs.gov)
How to claim
- File Form 1040 and complete the EIC section. If the IRS previously reduced or denied your EITC, attach Form 8862 to re‑claim when eligible. (irs.gov)
Refund timing reality check
- By law, IRS can’t issue any refund containing EITC or ACTC before mid‑February; many direct deposits arrive first week of March if e‑filed with direct deposit and no issues. Track it here: IRS “Where’s My Refund?”. (irs.gov)
Real‑world example (TY2024)
- A Hartford mom with two kids and earnings in the EITC “max” range could receive up to 6,960∗∗fromthefederalEITC.Connecticutwouldadd∗∗406,960** from the federal EITC. Connecticut would add **40%** of that (**2,784), for a combined $9,744—plus Child Tax Credit if eligible. Amounts vary with income; the IRS EITC tables control. (eitc.irs.gov, portal.ct.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If IRS disallowed your EITC in a prior year (other than a math error), you generally must file Form 8862. If you receive a letter and aren’t sure what it means, VITA/TCE can help at 800‑906‑9887. (irs.gov)
Connecticut Earned Income Tax Credit (CT EITC)
Most important actions:
- If you qualify for federal EITC and are a full‑year CT resident, claim your CT EITC on your CT‑1040. The CT amount is 40% of your federal EITC. (portal.ct.gov)
What you get
- CT EITC = 0.40 × your federal EITC (rate increased to 40% beginning with income year 2023; continues forward under current law). (portal.ct.gov)
How to claim
- File Form CT‑1040 and Schedule CT‑EITC via myconneCT. DRS hosts EITC webinars and videos each season if you get a request for more information. (portal.ct.gov)
CT help and contacts
- DRS Taxpayer Contact Center: 860‑297‑5962 or 800‑382‑9463 (M–F, 8:30–4:30). TTY: 860‑297‑4911. Secure messages and appointments available. (portal.ct.gov)
New: Additional $250 benefit routed through EITC framework
- The biennial state budget for FY 2026–2027 includes a $250 refundable benefit targeted to EITC families with children (one of several family relief measures). Watch for DRS guidance during the filing season when it’s implemented. (portal.ct.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If CT asks for more documents, send them quickly through myconneCT. If you need help, schedule DRS video assistance or call 860‑297‑5962. For local prep help, dial 2‑1‑1. (portal.ct.gov, uwc.211ct.org)
Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
Most important actions:
- If your child was under 17 at year‑end and has a valid SSN, do the Schedule 8812 worksheet. Even if you owe no tax, the refundable ACTC can pay up to the limits below. (irs.gov)
2024 amounts (returns filed in 2025)
- Up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchild(nonrefundableCTC),with∗∗upto2,000** per qualifying child (nonrefundable CTC), with **up to 1,700 per child refundable via the ACTC; income phase‑outs start at 200,000∗∗(single/HOH)and∗∗200,000** (single/HOH) and **400,000 (MFJ). Claim on Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
2025 planning note
- IRS IRB 2024‑45 sets the refundable cap at $1,700 per child for taxable years beginning in 2025. If Congress changes the base CTC later, IRS will update guidance; as of September 2025, no increase is enacted in official IRS materials. (irs.gov)
Timing
- The PATH Act holds all refunds with ACTC/EITC until mid‑February; many land first week of March if no issues. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your refund is offset for debts (child support, student loans, taxes), Treasury’s Offset Program may reduce it. If you filed jointly and your spouse’s debt caused the offset, consider Form 8379 (Injured Spouse). (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, fiscal.treasury.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)
Most important actions:
- If you paid for child care so you could work or look for work, gather your provider’s name, address, and EIN/SSN and file Form 2441. (irs.gov)
Key rules:
- For 2024, claim 20%–35% of up to 3,000∗∗ofexpensesforonechildunder13(ordisableddependent)or∗∗3,000** of expenses for one child under 13 (or disabled dependent) or **6,000 for two or more. The percentage depends on your AGI (see IRS Pub 503 table). This credit is nonrefundable under current law. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your provider won’t give an EIN/SSN, you can still claim with reasonable cause—see the instructions for Form 2441 and keep thorough records. For extra help, ask VITA/TCE at 800‑906‑9887. (irs.gov)
Connecticut Property Tax Credit ( CT‑1040, Schedule 3 )
Most important actions:
- If you paid local property tax on your primary residence or motor vehicle in 2024, claim the CT Property Tax Credit on your 2024 CT return (filed 2025). Max is $300 per return, nonrefundable, subject to income‑based reduction. (taxformfinder.org)
Notes and tips:
- Keep proof of payment (receipts, cancelled check, or Form 1098 if escrowed). DRS provides a Property Tax Credit Calculator in myconneCT. (taxformfinder.org)
- Legislative proposals in 2025 discussed raising the cap to 350,butasofSeptember2025,theofficial2024CT‑1040instructionssetthemaxat∗∗350, but as of September 2025, the official 2024 CT‑1040 instructions set the max at **300**. Verify each year’s instructions. (taxformfinder.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your income is too high for a meaningful credit, still file—this credit can only reduce CT tax you owe; it doesn’t carry forward or refund. For seniors/disabled homeowners or renters, ask your town assessor about separate state/local property relief programs (outside the income tax system). (cga.ct.gov)
Health Insurance Premium Tax Credits (Marketplace: Access Health CT)
Most important actions:
- If you buy coverage via Access Health CT, you may qualify for advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs) to lower monthly premiums. Open Enrollment for 2025 plans ran Nov 1, 2024–Jan 15, 2025. Typical rule: enroll by Dec 15 for coverage starting Jan 1. Access Health CT call center: 855‑805‑4325 (TTY 855‑789‑2428). (portal.ct.gov, agency.accesshealthct.com)
- The IRS sets annual limits on how much excess APTC you may have to repay; see 2025 repayment caps in IRB 2024‑45. Enhanced subsidies under the Inflation Reduction Act remain in effect through plan year 2025 under current law. (irs.gov, healthaffairs.org)
Reality check for 2026 and beyond:
- Without new legislation, the enhanced subsidies expire after 2025, which could raise net premiums for many; major health policy groups have published impact estimates. Keep an eye on updates before 2026 plan rates are finalized. (commonwealthfund.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you get a Form 1095‑A error, call Access Health CT (855‑805‑4325) for a corrected form before filing. If you can’t afford premiums now, dial 2‑1‑1 to explore Medicaid/HUSKY or Covered CT options. (portal.ct.gov, uwc.211ct.org)
Education Credits (if you’re in school)
- American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): up to 2,500∗∗pereligiblestudent(402,500** per eligible student (40% refundable up to **1,000); income phaseouts begin at 80,000∗∗(single)and∗∗80,000** (single) and **160,000 (MFJ). Claim on Form 8863. (irs.gov)
- Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): up to 2,000∗∗perreturn;nonrefundable;phaseout∗∗2,000** per return; nonrefundable; phaseout **80,000–90,000∗∗(single)and∗∗90,000** (single) and **160,000–$180,000 (MFJ). (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Keep your Form 1098‑T and receipts for books/supplies (AOTC). If you’re over the AOTC income limits, check LLC instead. (irs.gov)
Other CT Credits to know
- Credit for the delivery of a fetus born dead (Stillbirth Credit): $2,500 per CT income tax return year when a fetal death certificate has been filed; see Conn. Gen. Stat. § 12‑704i. (law.justia.com)
Refund Timelines and Tracking
- E‑file + direct deposit = most refunds in ~21 days unless EITC/ACTC applies. EITC/ACTC refunds are held until mid‑February; most early filers see deposits by first week of March. Track with [Where’s My Refund?] (IRS) and myconneCT for CT refunds. DRS refund status: 860‑297‑5962 or 800‑382‑9463. (irs.gov, portal.ct.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Claiming a child who doesn’t meet EITC residency rules (child must live with you > 6 months). Keep school, medical, or lease records. (irs.gov)
- Missing Social Security numbers (SSNs) for you and each child before the return due date—this disqualifies EITC/CTC. (irs.gov)
- Ignoring letters from IRS/DRS. If your EITC was ever denied, you may need Form 8862 to claim again. (irs.gov)
- Paying high prep fees for “promised refunds.” Use VITA/TCE/AARP free help instead: 800‑906‑9887 or 888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov, aarp.org)
- Banking issues. Refunds can be delayed or rejected if account info is wrong or not in your name. Double‑check routing/account numbers. (portal.ct.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your refund gets offset (child support, taxes, student loans), read Treasury’s Offset Program FAQs; if joint refund was taken for your spouse’s debt, consider Form 8379 (Injured Spouse). TOP IVR: 800‑304‑3107. (fiscal.treasury.gov)
Application Checklist (bring or upload these)
- Photo ID; SSNs for you and kids; if no SSN yet, apply now (SSA 800‑772‑1213). (irs.gov)
- All income forms: W‑2s, 1099‑NEC/MISC/K, 1099‑G (unemployment), 1099‑INT/DIV, SSA‑1099. (irs.gov)
- Proof your child lived with you (school or medical records, lease with child listed). (irs.gov)
- Childcare provider info for Form 2441 (name, address, EIN/SSN) and amounts paid. (irs.gov)
- Form 1095‑A (if you had marketplace insurance). (irs.gov)
- For CT Property Tax Credit: receipts for local property tax on your home/vehicle. (taxformfinder.org)
Tables You Can Use Today
Table 1. Federal EITC—2024 Income Limits and Credit Ranges
| Children | Income limit (Single/HOH) | Income limit (MFJ) | Credit range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3+ | $59,899 | $66,819 | 11to11 to 7,830 |
| 2 | $55,768 | $62,688 | 10to10 to 6,960 |
| 1 | $49,084 | $56,004 | 9to9 to 4,213 |
| 0 | $18,591 | $25,511 | 2to2 to 632 |
Source: IRS EITC—2024. (eitc.irs.gov)
Table 2. Federal EITC—2025 Maximums (for planning)
| Children | Max credit | Earned income amount (max plateau) | Investment income limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3+ | $8,046 | $17,880 | $11,950 |
| 2 | $7,152 | $17,880 | $11,950 |
| 1 | $4,328 | $12,730 | $11,950 |
| 0 | $649 | $8,490 | $11,950 |
Source: IRS IRB 2024‑45 (Rev. Proc. 2024‑40 tables). (irs.gov)
Table 3. CT EITC Snapshot
| If your federal EITC is… | CT EITC (40%) adds… | Total EITC (federal + CT) |
|---|---|---|
| $7,830 | $3,132 | $10,962 |
| $6,960 | $2,784 | $9,744 |
| $4,213 | $1,685 | $5,898 |
| $632 | $253 | $885 |
CT EITC is 40% of your federal amount. (portal.ct.gov)
Table 4. Child Tax Credit (2024–2025 quick view)
| Year | Base CTC per child | Refundable (ACTC) limit | Phaseout starts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $2,000 | $1,700 | 200,000single/HOH;200,000 single/HOH; 400,000 MFJ |
| 2025 | $2,000 (no enacted increase as of Sept 2025) | $1,700 | Same unless Congress changes law |
Sources: IRS Schedule 8812 (2024); IRS IRB 2024‑45. (irs.gov)
Table 5. CT Property Tax Credit (2024 CT return, filed 2025)
| Feature | Amount/Note |
|---|---|
| Max credit | $300 per return |
| Refundable? | No |
| What counts | Property tax paid on primary residence and/or motor vehicle |
| How to claim | CT‑1040, Schedule 3; use myconneCT calculator |
| Documentation | Receipts, billing statements, or 1098 (if escrowed) |
Source: CT‑1040 Instructions (2024). (taxformfinder.org)
Step‑by‑Step: Filing to Maximize Your Credits
- Use VITA/TCE or AARP if you earned $67,000 or less, are 60+ (for TCE), or need English/Spanish help. Bring the checklist above. Call 800‑906‑9887 or 888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov, aarp.org)
- File federal return first; select direct deposit. If EITC/ACTC claimed, expect release after mid‑February; many early filers see deposits by first week of March. (irs.gov)
- File CT‑1040 in myconneCT; add Schedule CT‑EITC and Schedule 3 for the Property Tax Credit. For help, DRS: 860‑297‑5962 / 800‑382‑9463. (portal.ct.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the IRS denies EITC and you believe you qualify, read the letter carefully and consider Form 8862 for the next eligible year. For identity verification requests, follow the letter’s online steps promptly to avoid delays. (irs.gov)
Real‑World Example Scenarios (TY2024 amounts)
- Two kids, earnings near the EITC “max” range: Federal EITC up to 6,960∗∗+CTEITC∗∗6,960** + CT EITC **2,784 = $9,744 back, plus CTC/ACTC if eligible. (eitc.irs.gov, portal.ct.gov)
- One child, moderate earnings: If you don’t owe federal tax, ACTC can refund up to $1,700 (2024). Add your EITC and CT EITC if you meet those rules. (irs.gov)
- No children, earnings under the limit: Federal EITC up to 632∗∗plusCTEITC∗∗632** plus CT EITC **253. If you paid CT property tax on your car or home, claim up to $300 nonrefundable CT credit. (eitc.irs.gov, portal.ct.gov, taxformfinder.org)
Free, Trusted Filing Help in Connecticut
- IRS VITA/TCE locator: 800‑906‑9887 (English/Spanish). (irs.gov)
- AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide (all ages welcome; focus on 50+): 888‑227‑7669. (press.aarp.org)
- United Way 2‑1‑1 (find local sites, schedule help, language access): dial 2‑1‑1 or 800‑203‑1234. (uwc.211ct.org)
- CT DRS for state return questions, appointments, refund status: 860‑297‑5962 or 800‑382‑9463. TTY 860‑297‑4911. (portal.ct.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your situation is complex (audit, appeal, or prior‑year denial), ask a VITA/TCE site for an LITC referral or contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service via IRS. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Pointers
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: If your family details changed (name, marital status), be sure SSA and IRS records match before filing to avoid refund delays. For broader support and referrals, dial 2‑1‑1 which offers multilingual assistance and crisis support 24/7. (uwc.211ct.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: You may claim the child as a qualifying person for EITC even if your work hours are limited; keep documentation of residency and disability status. VITA/TCE sites accommodate accessibility needs; call 800‑906‑9887 to ask about accommodations. (irs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Use Military OneSource MilTax for no‑cost filing help tailored to the military community: 800‑342‑9647 (general resource; confirm program availability each season). Also check VITA sites on bases when available. (irs.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: EITC and CTC require SSNs for you (and your child for CTC). If you use an ITIN, you can’t claim EITC. Visit SSA for SSN eligibility and apply early (800‑772‑1213). (irs.gov)
- Tribal citizens: IRS Indian Tribal Governments pages offer specific guidance; if you live and work on tribal lands, seek tax prep from VITA sites familiar with ITG rules. Use the IRS locator (800‑906‑9887). (irs.gov)
- Rural moms with limited transportation: Ask VITA about drop‑off options or virtual appointments (many CT sites offer these). If childcare is an obstacle, check with sites in libraries or community centers through 2‑1‑1. (irs.gov, uwc.211ct.org)
- Single fathers raising kids: All credits above apply based on who the child lived with and who supported the child. Keep proof of residency; EITC/CTC depend on where the child lived most of the year. (irs.gov)
- Language access: IRS and United Way 2‑1‑1 support multiple languages; Access Health CT provides translation and TTY lines for marketplace help (855‑805‑4325, TTY 855‑789‑2428). (portal.ct.gov)
Resources by Region (how to find real help fast)
- Dial 2‑1‑1 or 800‑203‑1234 and say “tax help” to get VITA/TCE sites near Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, Waterbury, New London, Danbury, Norwich, Willimantic and more. 2‑1‑1 maintains the statewide database and can text or email you locations. (uwc.211ct.org)
- IRS VITA locator (phone): 800‑906‑9887. AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov, press.aarp.org)
- CT DRS in Hartford offers appointments (in‑person or Microsoft Teams video). Call 860‑297‑5962. (portal.ct.gov)
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Refund holds: If you claim EITC/ACTC, refunds are held by law until mid‑February. Don’t rely on January money for rent—plan for March. (irs.gov)
- Offsets: The Treasury Offset Program may reduce your refund for child support, taxes, student loans, or state debts. Call TOP IVR 800‑304‑3107 to see which agency has your debt. File Form 8379 if you’re an injured spouse. (fiscal.treasury.gov)
- Keep records: School and medical records are your best proof that your child lived with you (EITC). Save daycare receipts and provider EIN/SSN (CDCTC). Keep property tax receipts for CT’s credit. (irs.gov, taxformfinder.org)
- Avoid high‑fee preparers: VITA/TCE/AARP are free and IRS‑certified. If you use a paid preparer, never sign a blank return and make sure they include their PTIN. (portal.ct.gov)
10 Connecticut‑Specific FAQs
- What is the CT EITC rate right now?
It’s 40% of your federal EITC. (portal.ct.gov) - Do I need to apply separately for CT EITC?
No. Claim it on your CT‑1040 with Schedule CT‑EITC after you compute your federal EITC. (portal.ct.gov) - What are the 2024 federal EITC maximums?
Up to 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (none). CT adds 40% of your federal amount. (eitc.irs.gov) - When will my EITC/ACTC refund arrive?
IRS can’t release these before mid‑February; many early filers see deposits first week of March if no issues. Track online. (irs.gov) - What is the CT Property Tax Credit for 2024 returns?
Up to $300, nonrefundable, for CT residents who paid eligible local property taxes on their home and/or vehicle; income reduction applies. Claim on Schedule 3. (taxformfinder.org) - Did Connecticut create a state Child Tax Credit?
A permanent statewide CTC did not pass in 2025; instead, the FY 2026–27 budget included a $250 refundable benefit via the EITC framework for working families with children (watch DRS for filing‑season instructions). (portal.ct.gov) - Where can I get free help filing?
VITA/TCE 800‑906‑9887; AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669; or dial 2‑1‑1 for local sites. (irs.gov, press.aarp.org, uwc.211ct.org) - How do I contact CT DRS about my return?
Call 860‑297‑5962 or 800‑382‑9463; TTY 860‑297‑4911; or use myconneCT secure messaging. (portal.ct.gov) - I buy insurance on Access Health CT. Are premium tax credits still available?
Yes for plan year 2025. Enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1 coverage. Call 855‑805‑4325 (TTY 855‑789‑2428). (portal.ct.gov) - What’s the refundable Stillbirth Credit in CT?
$2,500 credit in the year a fetal death certificate is filed (see CGS § 12‑704i). (law.justia.com)
What to Do If You’re Stuck (Plan B Options by Situation)
- Missed the April deadline: File as soon as possible; request an extension next time if needed. If due a refund, there’s no late‑filing penalty, but don’t wait. For CT filing deadlines and assistance, see DRS Tax Information. (portal.ct.gov)
- Refund offset took your money: Call TOP (800‑304‑3107) to identify the debt; if it’s your spouse’s debt on a joint return, consider Form 8379 (Injured Spouse). (fiscal.treasury.gov)
- IRS or DRS requested proof: Respond by the deadline on the letter. If you can’t find records, ask your child’s school/doctor/landlord for copies showing your address. VITA/TCE can help organize your response. (irs.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Connecticut Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program rules, amounts, and deadlines can change. Always verify key details with the IRS, Connecticut DRS, and Access Health CT before you file. We link directly to official pages so you can confirm the latest numbers.
- Security note for our website visitors: We never ask for your SSN, bank logins, or documents via unsecured forms. If any link looks suspicious, don’t click—type official addresses into your browser or call the agency directly.
Sources (selected)
- IRS Publication 596 and EITC pages for 2024 income limits and maximums; IRS IRB 2024‑45 for 2025 EITC/ACTC figures and APTC limits. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- CT DRS: CT EITC page (40% rate), webinars, CT‑1040 instructions (Property Tax Credit up to $300), DRS contact info. (portal.ct.gov, taxformfinder.org)
- IRS Schedule 8812 instructions (2024 ACTC $1,700); PATH Act refund timing page; VITA/TCE locator info. (irs.gov)
- Access Health CT Open Enrollment schedule and contact numbers; Governor’s press release on Open Enrollment; CT FY 2026–27 budget press release referencing $250 via EITC framework. (agency.accesshealthct.com, portal.ct.gov)
- IRS Pub 503 and Form 2441 instructions for Child & Dependent Care Credit. (irs.gov)
- CGS § 12‑704i Stillbirth Credit ($2,500). (law.justia.com)
- United Way 2‑1‑1 statewide help lines (2‑1‑1 / 800‑203‑1234). (uwc.211ct.org)
If you want, I can run a quick check on your specific situation (kids’ ages, filing status, 2024 earnings, and childcare costs) and estimate your federal + CT refunds using these rules and tables.
Learn more:
- Topic no. 101, IRS services – Volunteer tax assistance, outreach programs and identity theft | Internal Revenue Service
- Contact – United Way of Connecticut – 211 and eLibrary
- Governor Lamont Announces Connecticut Income Tax Rates Go Down, Earned Income Tax Credits Go Up, Senior Pension Exemptions Expand at the Start of 2024
- Income limits and range of EITC | Earned Income Tax Credit
- 2024 Instructions for Schedule 8812 (2024) | Internal Revenue Service
- When to expect your refund if you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit | Internal Revenue Service
- Connecticut Tax Instruction Booklet (Form CT-1040 Instruction Booklet) – 2024 Connecticut TaxFormFinder
- Governor Lamont Announces Open Enrollment for Coverage With Access Health CT Has Begun and Runs Through January 15
- Access Health CT Open Enrollment Period Begins November 1 – Access Health CT
- Governor Lamont Signs Biennial State Budget for 2026 and 2027
- Free Tax Preparation From AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
- Contact DRS
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance for the Elderly – TAS
- Internal Revenue Bulletin: 2024-45 | Internal Revenue Service
- Publication 596 (2024), Earned Income Credit (EIC) | Internal Revenue Service
- Webinars
- Forms and Instructions Assistance
- Refund Offsets – Taxpayer Advocate Service
- Treasury Offset Program – Child Support Program
- Instructions for Form 2441 (2024) | Internal Revenue Service
- Publication 503 (2024), Child and Dependent Care Expenses | Internal Revenue Service
- Chapter 229 – Income Tax
- Congress Poised To Extend Enhanced Marketplace Subsidies Through 2025 | Health Affairs
- ACA Marketplace Subsidies Expiration | Commonwealth Fund
- AOTC | Internal Revenue Service
- Publication 970 (2024), Tax Benefits for Education | Internal Revenue Service
- Education credits: Questions and answers | Internal Revenue Service
- Connecticut General Statutes § 12-704i. (2024) – Credit for delivery of a fetus born dead for which a fetal death certificate has been filed. :: Title 12, Chapter 229 – Income Tax :: 2024 Connecticut General Statutes :: U.S. Codes and Statutes :: U.S. Law :: Justia
- Other Helpful Information
- IRS, national partners launch EITC Awareness Day on 50th anniversary of the Earned Income Tax Credit | Internal Revenue Service
- Tax Information
- Treasury Offset Program – Federal Withholdings and Offsets
- AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Sites Open Nationwide, Providing Free Tax Prep to Millions of Older Adults – February 3, 2025
- About 211 – United Way of Connecticut – 211 and eLibrary
- United Way of Connecticut – 211 and eLibrary – Resource Center
- CT Earned Income Tax Credit
🏛️More Connecticut Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Connecticut
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
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- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
