Indiana EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you the exact steps, amounts, deadlines, and links you need to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other key credits as a single mom in Indiana. All figures and rules are current for the 2024 tax year (returns filed in 2025) and 2025 where available. Sources are official state and federal sites and are linked throughout.

Quick help box (read this first)

• If your 2024 income was under the EITC limit, use the IRS EITC Assistant to check eligibility and estimate your credit, then file to claim it. The EITC can be worth up to $7,830 (federal, 3+ kids) for 2024. Indiana adds a refundable state EITC equal to 10% of your federal EITC. Use the IRS EITC Assistant and then file. (eitc.irs.gov)
• File electronically and choose direct deposit. Federal refunds that include EITC/ACTC can’t be issued before mid‑February by law. Most other refunds arrive in about 21 days after e‑file acceptance. (irs.gov)
• Need free, in‑person filing help? Call VITA at 800‑906‑9887 or AARP Tax‑Aide at 888‑227‑7669; check the IRS locator for a nearby site. (irs.gov)
• Indiana DOR customer service: 317‑232‑2240 (Mon–Fri, 8:00–4:30 ET). You can also message securely via the INTIME portal. (in.gov)
• Don’t guess your amounts. Use the tables below for 2024 and 2025 EITC and Child Tax Credit figures. When in doubt, verify with the linked IRS or Indiana DOR pages. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)

What this guide covers that most search results don’t

• State‑specific steps for Indiana’s EITC add‑on (10% and refundable), with links to the exact schedule (IN‑EIC) you attach to your state return.
• Side‑by‑side tables for 2024 and 2025 EITC numbers, plus real‑world Indiana examples so you can ballpark your refund fast.
• A realistic filing timeline (including PATH Act delays), a complete “What to bring” checklist, and a “Plan B” at the end of each section.
• Local, trusted help options (Indiana DOR offices, VITA/AARP, Indiana Legal Services LITC) with phone numbers and direct links.
• Inclusive pointers for LGBTQ+ parents, veteran moms, moms with disabilities or disabled children, mixed‑status/immigrant families, and rural households.

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Indiana single moms)

---

Start here: Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The EITC is the single most valuable tax credit for many single mothers. It’s refundable, which means if your credit is bigger than your federal tax bill, you get the difference as a refund.

Most important actions to take now:

• Confirm eligibility and estimate your EITC using the IRS EITC Assistant (current year and prior years). It’s fast and avoids guesswork. IRS EITC Assistant (multilingual). (eitc.irs.gov)
• If you qualify for the federal EITC, claim Indiana’s EITC too. It’s 10% of your federal EITC and is refundable. Attach Schedule IN‑EIC. (events.in.gov, in.gov)
• File electronically and choose direct deposit. Refunds that include EITC will not be paid before mid‑February. (irs.gov)

2024 federal EITC amounts and income limits (for returns filed in 2025)

Source: IRS EITC income limits and ranges, Tax Year 2024. (eitc.irs.gov)

2025 federal EITC amounts (for returns filed in 2026)

Source: IRS annual inflation adjustments, IRB 2024‑45 (for TY 2025). (irs.gov)

Indiana’s EITC (state add‑on)

• Indiana’s EITC equals 10% of your federal EITC. If your federal EITC is $3,000\ast \ast ,yourIndianaEITCis\ast \ast$300. It’s refundable.
• Part‑year residents/nonresidents prorate the state EITC by Indiana income ratio.
• Indiana re‑coupled to the federal EITC and the 10% rate applies (increase from 9%)—change announced by the Indiana DOR. (events.in.gov)
• Statute confirms refundability and proration rules. (law.justia.com)

How to claim (fed + state):

• Federal: File Form 1040 and, if claiming kids, include Schedule EIC. Confirm your AGI and earned income are under the limits above; investment income must be $11,600 or less for 2024. (irs.gov)
• Indiana: File IT‑40 (resident) or IT‑40PNR (part‑year/nonresident) and attach Schedule IN‑EIC (State Form 49469). Download from “Other Individual Tax Forms” (look for IN‑EIC). (in.gov)

Reality checks and tips:

• Married filing separately usually cannot claim EITC, except under a narrow “separated spouse” rule (ARPA). If this might be you, read the IRS rule carefully or get VITA help. (eitc.irs.gov)
• Keep proof your child lived with you for over half the year (lease, school/daycare letters, medical or SNAP/TANF records showing your address). Audits often focus on residency.
• If you moved or had mixed incomes (W‑2 plus gig/1099), get free VITA prep. They’ll handle Schedule C if simple (no loss/depreciation). (irs.gov)

Real‑world examples (2024):

• You have two kids and your federal EITC calculates to the max $6,960\ast \ast .YourIndianaEITCwouldbe\ast \ast$696 (10%). Total EITC cash could be $7,656 before any other credits. (eitc.irs.gov, events.in.gov)
• You have one child and qualify for a federal EITC of $3,800\ast \ast .Indianaadds\ast \ast$380. Combined EITC: $4,180. (eitc.irs.gov, events.in.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Claiming a child who doesn’t meet the residency test (more than 6 months with you). The IRS checks this. (irs.gov)
• Skipping the state EITC. If you qualify federally, don’t forget Indiana’s Schedule IN‑EIC. (events.in.gov)
• Filing on pay stubs. Indiana DOR warns this causes delays. Wait for W‑2/1099 forms. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):

• If your EITC/ACTC refund is delayed beyond mid‑February or 21 days after acceptance, check “Where’s My Refund?” or call the IRS refund hotline 800‑829‑1954. For state refund issues, message INTIME or call 317‑232‑2240. (irs.gov, in.gov)

---

Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)

Most important actions to take first:

• For 2024, claim up to $2,000\ast \ast perchildunder17,withupto\ast \ast$1,700 refundable (ACTC). File Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
• For 2025, the IRS inflation adjustments keep the refundable ACTC cap at $1,700 per child. If Congress changes anything later, the IRS will adjust filed returns automatically. (irs.gov)

Key rules (2024 unless noted):

• Child must have an SSN and live with you over half the year; your MAGI phase‑out starts at $200,000\ast \ast (\ast \ast$400,000 MFJ). (irs.gov)
• Refunds that include ACTC are also held until mid‑February (PATH Act timing). (irs.gov)

Quick table: CTC basics

Sources: IRS refundable credits page; IRS Tax Time Guide 2025; IRS IRB 2024‑45 for 2025 amounts. (irs.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Missing Schedule 8812 or entering a child without an SSN. The IRS will adjust or deny the credit. (irs.gov)
• Assuming the credit is fully refundable. Only up to $1,700 per child is refundable for 2024. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):

• If your income is too low to get the full CTC, check if your EITC will deliver more refund. Also ensure you reported all earned income (including tipped income) correctly so ACTC can phase in. Use free VITA help if you’re unsure. (irs.gov)

---

Child and Dependent Care Credit (childcare costs)

Action items:

• Keep receipts for daycare, preschool, before/after‑school care, and day camps (not overnights). For 2024, claim up to 35% of eligible expenses, capped at $3,000\ast \ast (onechild)or\ast \ast$6,000 (two or more). Max credit is $1,050\ast \ast or\ast \ast$2,100. File Form 2441. (irs.gov)
• If your employer offers a Dependent Care FSA, those exclusions reduce the expenses you can use for this credit; check your Form 2441 instructions. (irs.gov)

Reality checks:

• This credit is nonrefundable, so it can bring your tax to $0 but won’t generate a refund by itself. For many single moms, EITC + ACTC deliver more cash. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):

• If your tax is already zero, focus on EITC/ACTC. Also check if your employer offers a Dependent Care FSA for the coming year to reduce taxable wages.

---

Education credits if you’re in school or your teen is

Action items:

• American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): Up to $2,500\ast \ast perstudent(40$1,000). For first four years of post‑secondary; must be at least half‑time. (irs.gov)
• Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): Up to $2,000 per return; for any level or skills courses; nonrefundable. Income limits apply. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):

• If you’re over AOTC/LLC income limits or owe no tax (so LLC won’t help), still file to get EITC/ACTC. Ask a VITA site to coordinate 1098‑T amounts with your other credits properly. (irs.gov)

---

Indiana‑specific family tax breaks you shouldn’t miss

Most valuable first:

• Indiana EITC: 10% of your federal EITC; refundable; use Schedule IN‑EIC. Part‑year residents prorate. (events.in.gov, law.justia.com)

Also worth checking:

• Indiana CollegeChoice 529 credit: 20% of contributions up to $1,500\ast \ast creditperyear(\ast \ast$750 MFS). Use Schedule IN‑529. Good for single moms saving for a child’s future schooling, even small contributions. (in.gov)
• Adoption credit (Indiana): Up to 20% of the federal adoption credit, capped at $2,500 per child; credits for 2022+ are refundable (per DOR announcement). See state instructions when filing. (events.in.gov)
• Dependent child exemption increase (state): If you’re claiming a child as a dependent for the first time, the additional child exemption is $3,000\ast \ast (was\ast \ast$1,500). Mark this on Schedule IN‑DEP. (in.gov)
• Renter’s deduction: Up to $3,000 of rent on your Indiana principal residence, if the property is subject to Indiana property tax. (in.gov)
• Homeowner property tax deduction: Up to $2,500 of Indiana property tax on your principal residence. (in.gov)

Indiana filing notes and contacts:

• Indiana’s flat income tax rate is 3.05% for 2024 and 3.00% for 2025; county income tax is extra and varies. (secure.in.gov)
• DOR phone 317‑232‑2240; secure messaging via INTIME is available; in‑person help at district offices statewide (addresses and hours online). (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B):

• If a state credit or deduction is denied, call 317‑232‑2240 or book a district office appointment. If you can’t resolve it after reasonable attempts (or face hardship), contact the DOR Taxpayer Advocate Office at 317‑232‑4692 or taxadvocate@dor.in.gov. (in.gov)

---

Filing steps and realistic timelines

Step‑by‑step:

• Gather documents (see checklist below), then e‑file your federal return (Form 1040 + Schedules EIC/8812/2441 as needed).
• File your Indiana return (IT‑40 or IT‑40PNR) the same day. Attach Schedule IN‑EIC (for state EITC) and IN‑529 (if claiming 529 credit).
• Choose direct deposit for fastest refunds. The IRS says most e‑filed returns are processed in about 21 days. Returns with EITC/ACTC are held until mid‑February. Indiana DOR asks you to wait 3–4 weeks before calling about refund status; paper returns can take up to 12 weeks. (irs.gov, in.gov)

Where to check status or get help:

• Federal: “Where’s My Refund?” or IRS refund hotline 800‑829‑1954.
• State: Use INTIME secure messaging or call 317‑232‑2240. (irs.gov, in.gov)

---

Application checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID for you (and spouse, if applicable).
• SSNs/ITINs for you and your children; birthdates.
• All income forms: W‑2, 1099‑NEC/‑MISC/‑K, 1099‑G (unemployment), 1099‑R, SSA‑1099.
• Childcare provider name, address, and taxpayer ID; total paid.
• Proof your child lived with you: lease, school/daycare letter, medical record, caseworker letter, or other official mail showing your address during at least 6 months.
• Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
• For Indiana: documents for renter’s deduction or property tax deduction; 529 contribution statements; adoption papers if applicable.

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing the Indiana EITC by not attaching Schedule IN‑EIC.
• Claiming EITC with a child who didn’t live with you over half the year.
• Filing early without W‑2/1099 documents (Indiana warns this delays processing).
• Using the wrong filing status (Head of Household is usually right if you paid over half the cost of keeping up your home and your child lived with you over half the year).
• Overlooking the renter’s deduction or the first‑year $3,000 child exemption increase on Indiana returns. (in.gov)

---

Free, trusted help in Indiana

Good places to start:

• IRS VITA/TCE: Free tax prep for most households with incomes under the VITA cap; specialized help for seniors via Tax‑Aide. Call 800‑906‑9887 or use the IRS locator. (irs.gov)
• Indiana DOR Customer Service: 317‑232‑2240 (general questions, payments, refunds); secure messaging via INTIME; in‑person help at district offices (Bloomington, Clarksville, Evansville, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Merrillville, South Bend, and others). (in.gov)
• Indiana Legal Services – Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC): Free help if you have an IRS dispute or hardship (audit, notice, identity theft). Listed by DOR among low‑income resources. (in.gov)
• Indy Free Tax Prep (United Way of Central Indiana) and partner sites: Free prep for eligible households (see county programs via VITA/AARP and local United Way). (in.gov)

---

Diverse Communities: practical pointers and resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers:

• Claiming your child: Use the same IRS “qualifying child” rules. If custody is shared, only one person claims the child; keep custody orders and proof of residence.
• If you changed your name or address, update the SSA/IRS to avoid refund delays. Use VITA for help if forms don’t match.

Single mothers with disabilities or raising a disabled child:

• EITC and CTC do not penalize disability benefits that are non‑taxable. Keep records of your child’s disability status—this can matter for the Child and Dependent Care Credit (care for a spouse/dependent who cannot care for themselves also qualifies). (irs.gov)
• Ask a VITA site if you qualify for the Saver’s Credit and other relief. (irs.gov)

Veteran single mothers:

• Non‑taxable combat pay can be elected in or out of earned income for EITC; try both ways to see which helps. Use Publication 596 guidance or VITA. (irs.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms:

• For EITC/CTC, the child generally must have a valid SSN; you must have a valid TIN/SSN. See the IRS refundable credits page for 2024 rules. Use VITA if you need an ITIN renewal. (irs.gov)

Tribal citizens:

• If your income includes per‑capita payments or tribal employment, VITA/TCE volunteers can help classify correctly so you don’t lose credits.

Rural single moms and those with limited internet:

• File for free at a VITA site; if distance is an issue, call 800‑906‑9887 to ask about mobile or pop‑up sites. Many libraries host events. (irs.gov)

Single fathers:

• The same rules apply. Only one parent can claim the qualifying child for EITC/CTC; keep custody agreements and residency proof.

Language access:

• IRS phone help offers interpreters in 350+ languages; call 800‑829‑1040 and request an interpreter. You can also schedule an appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) via 844‑545‑5640. (irs.gov)

---

Regional resources and Indiana offices (selected)

• Indianapolis DOR District Office: 100 N. Senate Ave., Rm N105, Indianapolis, IN 46204; main line 317‑232‑2240 (appointments encouraged). (in.gov)
• Evansville DOR District Office: 500 S. Green River Rd., Ste 202; phone 812‑479‑9261. (in.gov)
• Merrillville DOR District Office: 1411 E. 85th Ave.; phone 219‑769‑4267. (in.gov)
• Fort Wayne DOR District Office: 7230 Engle Rd., Ste 314, Fort Wayne, IN 46804; main line 317‑232‑2240. (in.gov)

---

Tables you can use while filing

Table A: 2024 federal EITC quick look (scan and go)

Source: IRS EITC 2024. (eitc.irs.gov)

Table B: 2025 federal EITC quick look

Source: IRS IRB 2024‑45 (TY 2025). (irs.gov)

Table C: 2024 Child Tax Credit (CTC) and refundability

Source: IRS refundable credits; IRS Tax Time Guide 2025. (irs.gov)

Table D: Indiana family tax breaks to double‑check

Sources: Indiana Treasurer (529), DOR credits/deductions pages, DOR release on adoption credit. (in.gov, events.in.gov)

Table E: Saver’s Credit (if you saved for retirement)

Max credit is $1,000\ast \ast (single)or\ast \ast$2,000 (MFJ) on up to $2,000/$4,000 of contributions. Nonrefundable. Claim on Form 8880. (irs.gov)

---

FAQs (Indiana‑specific, quick and practical)

• Do I get a separate Indiana EITC check?

  No. You claim Indiana’s EITC on your state return as 10% of your federal EITC; it’s refundable. (events.in.gov)

• I moved to Indiana mid‑year. Can I get the state EITC?

  Yes, if you qualify federally. Indiana prorates the credit for part‑year/nonresidents based on Indiana‑taxable income. (law.justia.com)

• When will my refund arrive if I claim EITC/ACTC?

  By law, the IRS can’t issue these refunds before mid‑February. Most e‑filed refunds arrive in about 21 days after acceptance. State refunds vary; Indiana asks you to wait 3–4 weeks before calling. (irs.gov, in.gov)

• What’s the income limit for 2024 EITC with two kids?

  For single/HOH, under $55,768\ast \ast ;MFJunder\ast \ast$62,688. (eitc.irs.gov)

• What’s Indiana’s tax rate this year?

  3.05% for 2024; 3.00% for 2025. County tax is extra and varies. (secure.in.gov)

• Can I claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit for summer day camp?

  Yes (day camps only; not overnight). Up to $3,000/$6,000 in expenses; max credit $1,050/$2,100; nonrefundable. (irs.gov)

• Is there a state credit for 529 college savings?

  Yes. 20% of contributions up to $1,500\ast \ast (\ast \ast$750 MFS). File Schedule IN‑529. (in.gov)

• I adopted. What should I know about state credits?

  Indiana’s adoption credit is up to 20% of the federal credit, capped at $2,500 per child; refundable for TY 2022+. See the IT‑40 instructions each year. (events.in.gov)

• I rent. Can I deduct rent on my Indiana return?

  Possibly. Up to $3,000 if your rental is subject to Indiana property tax. Keep your lease and proof of payments. (in.gov)

• Where can I get free help and avoid paid preparer fees?

  Call VITA 800‑906‑9887 or AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669; for state issues call 317‑232‑2240 or book a DOR district office appointment. (irs.gov, in.gov)

---

Quick “What to do if this doesn’t work” menu

• Federal refund delayed: Check “Where’s My Refund?”, then call 800‑829‑1954 only if the tool says to call. (irs.gov)
• Indiana refund delayed or reduced (offset): Message via INTIME or call 317‑232‑2240; offsets often go to child support, unemployment, or other debts. (in.gov)
• Can’t resolve a state issue: Indiana DOR Taxpayer Advocate Office 317‑232‑4692 (hardship/complex problems). (in.gov)
• Need in‑person filing help: VITA/TCE 800‑906‑9887 (ask about sites, hours, documents to bring). (irs.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Indiana 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 amounts and rules can change. Always verify with the IRS or Indiana DOR pages linked above before you file.
• Security tips for readers and site owners: use only official .gov links when entering personal info; never share SSNs in comments or emails; keep your browser and plugins updated; enable MFA on tax and email accounts.
• This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice for your specific situation.

---

Sources (verified and dated)

• IRS EITC limits and ranges for 2024; IRS EITC press info (reviewed Apr 10, 2025). (eitc.irs.gov)
• IRS Publication 596 (2024): rules, investment income limit, and special filing status notes. (irs.gov)
• IRS IRB 2024‑45: 2025 EITC and refundable CTC amounts (published 2024). (irs.gov)
• IRS Tax Time Guide 2025: PATH Act refund timing; standard deduction amounts; ACTC mid‑Feb hold. (irs.gov)
• Indiana DOR: Credits overview and Schedule IN‑EIC; Current Forms; Deductions; Filing guidance; Refund timelines. (events.in.gov, in.gov)
• Indiana Treasurer (CollegeChoice 529 credit: 20% up to $1,500). (in.gov)
• Indiana DOR announcement (Jan 6, 2023): EITC 10% rate; adoption credit refundable and capped at $2,500. (events.in.gov)
• IRS Pub. 503 and Form 2441 instructions: Child and Dependent Care Credit (2024 amounts). (irs.gov)
• AOTC/LLC amounts and rules (IRS pages; Pub. 970). (irs.gov)
• Saver’s Credit (IRS page and news release with 2024 AGI thresholds). (irs.gov)
• Indiana DOR contact and district offices. (in.gov)
• Indiana flat tax rate path to 3.00% (2025). (secure.in.gov)

If you spot a broken link or outdated figure, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll update within 48 hours per our editorial policy.

---

🏛️More Indiana Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Indiana

• 📋 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