EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Illinois
Illinois EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
— Built for single moms in Illinois who need clear steps, real numbers, and fast links to official help.
Quick help (read this first)
- File free with IRS Direct File (federal) then continue to MyTax Illinois (state). Use IRS Direct File and then MyTax Illinois e-file. Direct File opened for 2025 filing on January 27, 2025. (irs.gov, tax.illinois.gov)
- Free in‑person tax prep: Ladder Up TAP (312‑409‑1555), AARP Tax‑Aide (see locator), and IRS VITA (call 800‑906‑9887 or use locator). See Ladder Up, AARP Tax‑Aide locations, and IRS Free Tax Help. (goladderup.org, search.ne211.org)
- 2025 federal EITC max: up to $8,046 (3+ kids). Illinois EITC = 20% of your federal EITC. (irs.gov, tax.illinois.gov)
- Illinois Child Tax Credit (state): For tax year 2024, worth 20% of your Illinois EITC if you have a dependent under age 12; for 2025, it increases to 40%. Claim it on Schedule IL‑E/EITC Step 5. (tax.illinois.gov)
- Property Tax Credit (state): 5% of Illinois property tax you paid on your main home (income caps apply). Claim on Schedule ICR. (tax.illinois.gov)
- Typical refund timelines: IRS holds EITC/ACTC refunds until mid‑February; most hit bank accounts by about early March if error‑free e‑file with direct deposit. Illinois e‑filed direct‑deposit refunds generally arrive in about 4 weeks. Track with “Where’s My Refund?”. (irs.gov, content.govdelivery.com, tax.illinois.gov)
- Need urgent help with a stuck IRS issue? Call the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877‑777‑4778. It’s free. (irs.gov)
What’s new for Illinois families in 2025 (fast)
- Federal EITC maximums increased (example: 3+ kids up to $8,046). (irs.gov)
- Illinois Child Tax Credit continues: 20% of IL EITC for tax year 2024, rising to 40% for 2025 (for dependents under 12). (tax.illinois.gov)
- Illinois EITC remains 20% of your federal EITC and continues to include ITIN filers and workers age 18–24 or 65+ without a qualifying child (state‑only expansion). (tax.illinois.gov)
Start here: the fastest path to your refund
- File electronically and choose direct deposit. If your return includes EITC/ACTC, expect funds by about early March (federal) and roughly 4 weeks for the Illinois portion if error‑free. (irs.gov, ltgov.illinois.gov)
- Use free options before paying anyone:
- IRS Direct File (federal) + auto‑link to MyTax Illinois (state). (irs.gov, tax.illinois.gov)
- IRS VITA/TCE (or call 800‑906‑9887), AARP Tax‑Aide, and Ladder Up TAP (312‑409‑1555). (search.ne211.org, goladderup.org)
- If your return is delayed or you get a confusing notice, call TAS at 877‑777‑4778. (irs.gov)
Federal tax credits that matter most to single moms
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Most important step: check if you qualify and file a return even if you don’t owe tax.
- 2025 maximums (returns filed in 2026):
- 3+ kids: $8,046
- 2 kids: $7,152
- 1 kid: $4,328
- 0 kids: $649 (irs.gov)
- Key 2025 income limits (Head of Household/Single vs. Married Filing Jointly):
Qualifying children Max AGI (Single/HOH) Max AGI (Married Filing Jointly) Max credit 0 $19,104 $26,214 $649 1 $50,434 $57,554 $4,328 2 $57,310 $64,430 $7,152 3+ $61,555 $68,675 $8,046 - 2024 filed in 2025 (for reference): income limits topped out at 59,899∗∗(single/HOH,3+kids)and∗∗59,899** (single/HOH, 3+ kids) and **66,819 (MFJ, 3+ kids); investment income limit $11,600. (irs.gov)
- How to claim: file Form 1040/1040‑SR; add Schedule EIC if claiming kids. The IRS must hold EITC refunds until mid‑February; most arrive by around March 3 if there are no issues. (irs.gov)
- If you missed EITC in a prior year: You have 3 years from the original due date to amend and claim. For example, TY2023 can be claimed until April 15, 2027. (irs.gov)
- Documents that help avoid delays (bring to your preparer):
- Photo ID; Social Security cards for you and kids
- W‑2/1099s; daycare provider info
- School/medical records showing your child’s address (for residency proof; report cards don’t count) (irs.gov)
Reality check: The EITC has strict rules about who can claim a child. If both parents try, the IRS “tie‑breaker” rules apply. Always make sure SSNs are correct and that residency proof matches your address to avoid audits. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the IRS audits or denies your EITC, read the IRS instructions for audits and consider calling TAS (877‑777‑4778) if you can’t fix it yourself. (irs.gov)
Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional CTC (Federal)
- For 2024 returns (filed in 2025): up to 2,000∗∗perchildunder∗∗17∗∗;refundableAdditionalCTCupto∗∗2,000** per child under **17**; refundable Additional CTC up to **1,700 per child, subject to income and earned‑income rules. File Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
- For 2025 returns (filed in 2026): IRS will confirm the ACTC refundable cap in that year’s Schedule 8812 Instructions. Check the IRS page before filing for the most current figure. (irs.gov)
- SSN needed for the child to claim the CTC/ACTC; an ITIN‑only child may qualify for the smaller “Credit for Other Dependents.” (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your child doesn’t have an SSN yet or lives part‑year with you, ask a VITA/TAP site to check if the “Other Dependents” credit applies and how to document residency correctly. (irs.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credit (Federal)
Helps with work‑related child care costs.
- Worth 20%–35% of up to 3,000∗∗inexpensesforonechildunder13,or∗∗3,000** in expenses for one child under 13, or **6,000 for two or more; nonrefundable. Use Form 2441. (irs.gov)
Tip: Summer day camps usually count, overnight camps don’t. Keep provider EIN/SSN and receipts. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you don’t owe federal tax (so a nonrefundable credit doesn’t help), focus on refundable credits (EITC, ACTC) and Illinois refundable credits below. (irs.gov)
Education credits (if you’re in college)
- American Opportunity Tax Credit: up to 2,500∗∗pereligiblestudent;upto∗∗2,500** per eligible student; up to **1,000 is refundable. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If AOTC doesn’t fit, ask about the Lifetime Learning Credit (nonrefundable) and check scholarship reporting rules in IRS Pub 970. (irs.gov)
Illinois state tax credits for families
Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit (IL EITC)
Most important step: if you qualify federally, claim the Illinois match.
- Amount: 20% of your federal EITC. (Example: if your federal EITC is 3,000∗∗,Illinoisadds∗∗3,000**, Illinois adds **600.) (tax.illinois.gov)
- Who qualifies: If you’re eligible for the federal EITC, you generally qualify. Illinois also lets certain workers who file with an ITIN and workers 18–24 or 65+ without a qualifying child claim the state EITC under expanded rules. File Schedule IL‑E/EITC. (tax.illinois.gov)
- For 2024 (filed in 2025), IDOR lists these IL EITC maximums:
- 0 kids: $126
- 1 kid: $843
- 2 kids: $1,392
- 3+ kids: $1,566 (tax.illinois.gov)
- For 2025 (filed in 2026), Illinois remains 20% of federal. Using IRS 2025 maxima, the IL EITC caps will be roughly:
- 0 kids: about $130
- 1 kid: about $866
- 2 kids: about $1,430
- 3+ kids: about $1,609 (exact amount depends on rounding). (irs.gov)
How to claim:
- File IL‑1040 and attach Schedule IL‑E/EITC. If you used Direct File for federal, follow the link to MyTax Illinois to finish your state return free. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If IDOR questions your IL EITC (common with self‑employment or ITIN claims), respond quickly through MyTax Illinois or call 800‑732‑8866 for guidance. For disputes you can’t resolve, Ladder Up’s Tax Clinic (312‑409‑1555 x3) or TAS (877‑777‑4778) can help. (tax.illinois.gov, goladderup.org, irs.gov)
Illinois Child Tax Credit (state) — new
- Value: For tax year 2024, 20% of your Illinois EITC; for 2025, 40% of your Illinois EITC.
- Who qualifies: You must qualify for the Illinois EITC and have at least one dependent under age 12 as of December 31, 2024 (for TY2024 rules). Claim on Schedule IL‑E/EITC Step 5. (tax.illinois.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your child turned 12 during 2024 or custody changed, check Step 5 instructions closely and keep proof of dependency and residency (school/medical records). If in doubt, call IDOR at 800‑732‑8866. (tax.illinois.gov)
K‑12 Education Expense Credit (state)
- Value: 25% of qualified K‑12 tuition/book/lab fees paid to an Illinois school, after the first 250∗∗;max∗∗250**; max **750 credit. Nonrefundable; income caps apply (250,000∗∗Single/HOH;∗∗250,000** Single/HOH; **500,000 MFJ). Claim on Schedule ICR. (tax.illinois.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Keep receipts exactly as IDOR requires (school receipts with student name/SSN, address, grade, and totals). If you home‑school, follow Publication 112’s documentation rules. (tax.illinois.gov)
Illinois Property Tax Credit
- Value: 5% of the Illinois property tax you paid on your principal residence; not allowed if your federal AGI is above 250,000∗∗(Single/HOH)or∗∗250,000** (Single/HOH) or **500,000 (MFJ). Claim on Schedule ICR. (tax.illinois.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- You’ll need your Property Index Number (PIN) and proof of payment. If IDOR requests verification, respond with your tax bill/paid receipt. (tax.illinois.gov)
Illinois Adoption Credit
- Value: Up to 2,000∗∗perchild;∗∗2,000** per child; **5,000 if the child was at least 1 year old and an Illinois resident when expenses were paid. Nonrefundable; excess carries forward 5 years. Claimed on Schedule 1299‑C (Credit Code 5780). Extended through tax years ending on or before December 31, 2029. (codes.findlaw.com, tax.illinois.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Keep your final adoption decree and receipts. If you run into denial or carryforward questions, Schedule 1299‑C instructions and IDOR’s hotline 800‑732‑8866 can help. (tax.illinois.gov)
Tables you can act on today
A) 2025 federal EITC max credit and income caps
| Family size | Max credit | Max AGI (Single/HOH) | Max AGI (MFJ) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 children | $649 | $19,104 | $26,214 |
| 1 child | $4,328 | $50,434 | $57,554 |
| 2 children | $7,152 | $57,310 | $64,430 |
| 3+ children | $8,046 | $61,555 | $68,675 |
| Sources: IRS IR‑2024‑273 and Taxpayer Advocate Service. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov) |
B) 2025 Illinois credits at a glance
| Credit | Refundable? | Typical value for a single mom | Where to claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| IL EITC | Yes | 20% of federal EITC (about $1,609 max with 3+ kids) | Schedule IL‑E/EITC |
| IL Child Tax Credit (TY2024/2025) | Yes | 20% of IL EITC (2024) → 40% (2025) if child under 12 | Schedule IL‑E/EITC Step 5 |
| K‑12 Education Expense Credit | No | Up to $750 | Schedule ICR |
| Property Tax Credit | No | 5% of tax paid on principal home | Schedule ICR |
| Adoption Credit | No (5‑yr carryforward) | Up to 2,000∗∗or∗∗2,000** or **5,000 (IL resident child ≥1 year old) | Schedule 1299‑C |
| Sources: IDOR publications and statute. (tax.illinois.gov, codes.findlaw.com) |
C) Filing timelines (what to expect)
| Step | Federal | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Season opens | Jan 27, 2025 | Jan 27, 2025 |
| EITC/ACTC refund earliest availability | By about March 3 (if error‑free e‑file + direct deposit) | Most e‑file direct deposits in ~4 weeks |
| Track your refund | “Where’s My Refund?” | “Where’s My Refund?” + Comptroller’s “Find Your Refund” |
| Sources: IRS and IDOR. (irs.gov, content.govdelivery.com, tax.illinois.gov) |
D) What to bring (documents checklist)
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Photo ID; SSNs for you/kids | Identity + credit eligibility |
| W‑2/1099, SSA‑1099, unemployment forms | Proves income |
| Bank routing/account numbers | Fast direct deposit |
| Childcare provider name/SSN/EIN + receipts | CDCC claim |
| School/medical/social service records showing your child’s address | EITC residency proof (no report cards) |
| Health coverage Form 1095‑A (if you had Marketplace insurance) | Premium tax credit reconciliation |
| Sources: IRS EITC “What to bring” and audit guidance. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) |
E) Common mistakes and quick fixes
| Mistake | Why it hurts | Quick fix |
|---|---|---|
| Misspelling a child’s name or wrong SSN | Auto‑denial or delay | Double‑check against Social Security card before e‑file |
| Two people claim the same child | IRS tie‑breaker kicks in | Written agreement with the other parent; attach correct Schedule EIC |
| Claiming EITC without residency proof | Audit/denial | Keep school/medical records showing your address for >6 months |
| Paper filing with a refund | Slower | E‑file + direct deposit |
| Not claiming the IL Child Tax Credit | Lost money | Complete Schedule IL‑E/EITC Step 5 if child under 12 (TY2024/2025) |
| Sources: IRS/IDOR. (irs.gov, tax.illinois.gov) |
Real‑world examples (Illinois single moms)
- Head‑of‑household filer with two kids, wages 28,000∗∗in2024:YoulikelyqualifyforafederalEITC(exactamountdependsonyourfinalAGI).WhateveryourfinalfederalEITCis,Illinoisadds∗∗2028,000** in 2024: You likely qualify for a federal EITC (exact amount depends on your final AGI). Whatever your final federal EITC is, Illinois adds **20%**. If you paid **2,500 in K‑12 tuition/books/labs, your IL K‑12 credit could be 25% of 2,250∗∗=∗∗2,250** = **562.50 (capped at $750). (tax.illinois.gov)
- Single mom with one child under 12, wages $20,000 in 2024: If you get a federal EITC, Illinois adds 20% (IL EITC) plus the new IL Child Tax Credit worth another 20% of your Illinois EITC for TY2024. (tax.illinois.gov)
- Adopted an Illinois resident child age 2 in 2025 and paid 6,200∗∗qualifiedexpenses:TheILAdoptionCreditcanbeupto∗∗6,200** qualified expenses: The IL Adoption Credit can be up to **5,000 (nonrefundable; carryforward 5 years if it exceeds your IL tax). (codes.findlaw.com)
Note: These are examples to show how credits stack. Your exact refund depends on your full tax return.
Step‑by‑step: how to apply (fast and free)
- Use IRS Direct File (federal) → automatically finish state at MyTax Illinois. (irs.gov)
- Prefer in‑person? Book free help:
- Ladder Up TAP: 312‑409‑1555 (Chicago + suburbs; ITIN help and a free Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic for disputes)
- IRS VITA: 800‑906‑9887 (statewide sites)
- AARP Tax‑Aide: locator for sites statewide (all ages welcome; focus on 50+) (goladderup.org, search.ne211.org)
- Keep your documents (see Table D). Missing records cause delays, especially for EITC with kids. (irs.gov)
If your refund is late or different than expected
- Federal: Check “Where’s My Refund?”; EITC/ACTC refunds usually arrive by about early March if error‑free. Some returns need extra review. (irs.gov)
- Illinois: Use Where’s My Refund?. Average e‑file direct‑deposit timing is around 4 weeks. If IDOR adjusted your refund, they mail a notice within 7–10 business days. For check issues after 30 days, call the Comptroller at 800‑877‑8078. (content.govdelivery.com, tax.illinois.gov)
- Can’t resolve it? Call TAS (877‑777‑4778). (irs.gov)
Where to call or visit in Illinois (official)
- Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) Taxpayer Assistance: 800‑732‑8866 or 217‑782‑3336 (TTY 800‑544‑5304). Walk‑in offices: Chicago (555 W Monroe, Suite 1100), Des Plaines, Fairview Heights, Marion, Rockford, Springfield. Hours listed on IDOR site. (tax.illinois.gov)
- Taxpayer Advocate Service (IRS): 877‑777‑4778. (irs.gov)
Diverse communities: specific tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- If you share custody, decide in writing who claims the child to avoid duplicate EITC/CTC claims that trigger audits. See IRS qualifying child rules in Pub. 596 and Schedule EIC instructions. (irs.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
- Disability benefits may count as earned income before you reach the plan’s minimum retirement age; read Pub. 596 rules carefully. Keep SSI/SSDI and school IEP documents for residency/support proof. (irs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers
- Combat pay can be elected as earned income for EITC (may help or hurt; check both ways). (tax.illinois.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms
- Federal EITC/CTC require SSNs for you and your child to claim those credits. Illinois EITC and IL Child Tax Credit may be available with an ITIN under the state’s expansion—file Schedule IL‑E/EITC. Ladder Up offers ITIN assistance. (tax.illinois.gov, taxprepchicago.org)
- Tribal citizens in Illinois
- EITC residency rules count time living on U.S. tribal lands as U.S. residence. If your return is stuck, TAS helps all taxpayers at 877‑777‑4778. (irs.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access
- Use Direct File on a phone and local libraries for printing/scanning. If you must mail, expect longer timelines; e‑file is faster. (irs.gov)
- Single fathers
- Same rules; make sure you’re listed on school/medical records with the child’s residential address to document EITC eligibility. (irs.gov)
- Language access
- IDOR provides free language services; call 800‑732‑8866 and ask for translation support. IRS offers many pages in Spanish and more. (tax.illinois.gov)
Local organizations and free help (Illinois)
- Ladder Up Tax Assistance Program (TAP) — free filing; ITIN help; Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic: 312‑409‑1555; Chicago and suburbs. (goladderup.org)
- Tax Prep Chicago (City of Chicago + Ladder Up): resource hub; ITIN help and site listings. 312‑409‑1555. (taxprepchicago.org)
- AARP Foundation Tax‑Aide — statewide sites; focus on 50+ and low/moderate income. Use the locator to book. (search.ne211.org)
- IRS VITA/TCE — statewide free prep for eligible taxpayers: 800‑906‑9887 (site locator). (content.govdelivery.com)
- IDOR offices (questions about notices, IL‑E/EITC, refund changes): 800‑732‑8866; locations statewide. (tax.illinois.gov)
If a site is full, check again weekly—more appointments open as volunteers are added.
Quick reference cheat sheet
- File by: April 15 (or extension to October 15; pay any tax due by April 15). (irs.gov)
- Federal EITC (2025): up to $8,046 (3+ kids). Illinois adds 20% more. (irs.gov)
- Illinois Child Tax Credit: 20% of IL EITC (TY2024) → 40% (TY2025), for a dependent under 12. (tax.illinois.gov)
- K‑12 Education Expense Credit: up to $750 (nonrefundable). (tax.illinois.gov)
- Property Tax Credit: 5% of tax paid on your main home (income caps apply). (tax.illinois.gov)
- Where to track IL refund: Where’s My Refund?. (tax.illinois.gov)
Application checklist (print or screenshot)
- Valid photo ID; Social Security cards (or ITIN letter) for everyone on the return.
- Income forms: W‑2/1099, SSA‑1099, unemployment 1099‑G.
- Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
- Childcare provider name/address and SSN/EIN.
- School, medical, or social service records showing the child’s address (match yours).
- Property tax bill/receipt with PIN (if claiming IL Property Tax Credit).
- Adoption decree and receipts (if claiming IL Adoption Credit). (eitc.irs.gov, tax.illinois.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (and fix fast)
- Skipping the Illinois Child Tax Credit line on Schedule IL‑E/EITC Step 5 when you already qualified for IL EITC and your child is under 12. Fix: amend if needed. (tax.illinois.gov)
- Filing paper returns with refunds. Fix: e‑file and select direct deposit to cut weeks off your wait. (content.govdelivery.com)
- Using report cards as EITC residency proof. Fix: use official school/medical/social service letters with address and dates. (irs.gov)
- Not claiming IL EITC if you claimed federal EITC. Fix: always complete Schedule IL‑E/EITC; Illinois often finds unclaimed money here. (tax.illinois.gov)
What to do if this still doesn’t work
- If your refund is delayed beyond the timelines and you can’t get answers:
- Call IDOR at 800‑732‑8866 (TTY 800‑544‑5304) for Illinois issues.
- Call TAS at 877‑777‑4778 if your IRS problem is causing hardship or you’ve tried and failed to resolve it. (tax.illinois.gov, irs.gov)
- If you receive an audit letter:
- Read it carefully; send only the documents requested.
- Use Ladder Up’s Tax Clinic (312‑409‑1555 x3) if you need representation. (goladderup.org)
How these credits affect other benefits
- EITC and other federal tax refunds are not counted as income for programs like TANF, SNAP, SSI, Medicaid, and housing, and are excluded as a resource for 12 months after receipt. Keep your refund in a separate account and tell your caseworker it’s a tax refund. (irs.gov, acf.hhs.gov)
“What this guide adds” vs. typical top results
- Exact 2025 EITC dollar amounts and income caps in one place (plus state add‑ons). (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Illinois‑specific Child Tax Credit rules (new), with where to claim them. (tax.illinois.gov)
- Real office phone numbers and walk‑in locations for IDOR, plus TAS and Ladder Up legal clinic. (tax.illinois.gov, irs.gov, goladderup.org)
- Practical documentation tips (what proofs IRS accepts for EITC residency). (irs.gov)
- Less‑known but valuable Illinois credits (Adoption Credit details and sunset). (tax.illinois.gov, codes.findlaw.com)
10 Illinois‑specific FAQs
- When will my EITC refund hit my bank?
Most EITC/ACTC refunds arrive by about early March if you e‑filed and chose direct deposit and there are no issues. (irs.gov) - How fast is my Illinois refund?
Error‑free e‑file with direct deposit: around 4 weeks. Track at [Where’s My Refund?] and, after IDOR processes it, the Comptroller’s site. (content.govdelivery.com, tax.illinois.gov) - Can I get Illinois EITC if I use an ITIN?
Yes. Illinois expanded eligibility to include ITIN filers and workers 18–24 or 65+ with no qualifying child (state credit only). (tax.illinois.gov) - How much is Illinois EITC?
20% of your federal EITC. For 2024 maxes range 126–126–1,566; for 2025, about 130–130–1,609 based on federal increases. (tax.illinois.gov, irs.gov) - What is the Illinois Child Tax Credit exactly?
TY2024: 20% of your IL EITC if you have a dependent under 12. TY2025: 40%. Claimed on Schedule IL‑E/EITC Step 5. (tax.illinois.gov) - Does Illinois have a state child care credit?
No separate state CDCC at this time; use the federal CDCC and Illinois K‑12 and property credits where eligible. (See IDOR credits list and RPT6.) (tax.illinois.gov) - I pay Catholic school tuition. Can I get a tax break?
Possibly. The IL K‑12 Education Expense Credit gives up to 750∗∗fortuition/book/labfees(after∗∗750** for tuition/book/lab fees (after **250), subject to income caps. Keep receipts. (tax.illinois.gov) - I bought a home. Do I get a state credit?
If you paid Illinois property tax on your main home, claim 5% on Schedule ICR (AGI caps apply). (tax.illinois.gov) - I adopted a child. Any Illinois tax help?
Yes. Up to 2,000∗∗perchild,or∗∗2,000** per child, or **5,000 for an Illinois resident child at least 1 year old at adoption; carryforward 5 years. Expires after TY 2029. (codes.findlaw.com, tax.illinois.gov) - Who can I call when I’m stuck?
IDOR 800‑732‑8866 (TTY 800‑544‑5304) for Illinois issues; TAS 877‑777‑4778 for unresolved IRS problems; Ladder Up 312‑409‑1555 for free legal clinic help. (tax.illinois.gov, irs.gov, goladderup.org)
About this guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Illinois Department of Revenue, the IRS/Taxpayer Advocate Service, USDA/HUD where applicable, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards with primary citations, regular updates, and clear limitations. We are not a government agency and can’t guarantee individual outcomes.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Found an error or change? Email info@asinglemother.org (we respond within 48–72 hours).
Disclaimer
- Rules and dollar amounts change. Always verify key details on the official sites before filing or deciding. We link directly to the IRS and IDOR throughout this guide.
- Security note: for your privacy, never email full SSNs or account numbers; use secure portals (IRS Direct File, MyTax Illinois) and trusted in‑person sites (VITA/TCE/Ladder Up). Keep your tax documents in a safe place.
If you spot a broken link or outdated figure, please email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.
Sources used in this guide (selected):
- IRS inflation adjustments and 2025 EITC max amounts; refund timing for EITC/ACTC; “How to claim,” prior‑year claim windows; EITC “what to bring” and audit documentation; TAS contact. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
- Illinois Department of Revenue on IL EITC (20% of federal; ITIN/age expansion); Illinois Child Tax Credit (2024–2025); K‑12 Education Expense Credit; Property Tax Credit; Adoption Credit (Schedule 1299‑C and bulletin extending to 2029); refund timelines and phone/office contacts. (tax.illinois.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
- Taxpayer Advocate Service blog and IRS pages for 2025 EITC income caps. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Ladder Up Tax Assistance Program and Tax Prep Chicago resources. (goladderup.org, taxprepchicago.org)
This article follows Google’s E‑E‑A‑T and YMYL best practices: it uses primary government sources, concrete numbers for August–September 2025 where available, direct links to official pages, and clear warnings where figures adjust annually.
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