EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Iowa
Iowa EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑BS 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, Iowa‑specific guide to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other tax credits single mothers in Iowa can use right now. It includes exact 2024 filing‑season amounts (returns filed in 2025) and 2025 amounts for planning. Every dollar figure, deadline, and phone number is bolded for fast scanning. Links go straight to official sources.
Quick Help Box
- Check your EITC eligibility in 3 minutes with the IRS tool and save/print the results: IRS EITC Qualification Assistant. If you qualify, you must file a tax return to get the money. (irs.gov)
- Free tax prep near you (VITA/TCE): Call 800‑906‑9887 or dial 2‑1‑1 (Iowa statewide toll‑free 866‑813‑1731) to book an appointment. Find a VITA site or 211 Iowa. (eitc.irs.gov, 211iowa.org)
- Iowa EITC = 15% of your federal EITC (refundable). Claim it on IA 1040, Line 25. Iowa Department of Revenue: EITC. (revenue.iowa.gov)
- Refund timelines: IRS issues most e‑filed refunds in about 21 days, but if you claim EITC/ACTC, federal law holds refunds until mid‑February; most hit bank accounts by about March 3 if all is clean. Track it at Where’s My Refund?. Iowa state refunds target ~30 days. Track at Iowa Where’s My Refund or call 515‑281‑3114 / 800‑367‑3388. (irs.gov, revenue.iowa.gov)
- Need help with an IRS problem causing hardship? Call the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877‑777‑4778. It’s free. (irs.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (2024 filing season amounts; 2025 for planning)
| Credit | 2024 Max (filed in 2025) | 2025 Max (planning) | Key Rules |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC | 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (0) | 8,046∗∗(3+),∗∗8,046** (3+), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (0) | Income limits vary by filing status and kids; valid SSNs required; investment income must be ≤ 11,600∗∗(2024)/∗∗11,600** (2024) / **11,950 (2025). (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) |
| Iowa EITC | 15% of federal EITC (refundable) | 15% of federal EITC (refundable) | Claim on IA 1040 Line 25; part‑year/nonresidents prorate. (revenue.iowa.gov) |
| Child Tax Credit (CTC) | Up to 2,000∗∗perchildunder17;refundableACTCupto∗∗2,000** per child under 17; refundable ACTC up to **1,700 (2024) | ACTC refundable cap $1,700 (2025, per IRS Rev. Proc.) | SSN required for child; phaseout starts 200,000∗∗single/∗∗200,000** single/**400,000 MFJ. Refunds with ACTC also held until mid‑Feb. (irs.gov) |
| Fed. Child & Dependent Care Credit | Up to 35% of 3,000∗∗(onechild)/∗∗3,000** (one child) / **6,000 (2+); usually 20%–35% based on income | Same structure | Nonrefundable; use Form 2441. (irs.gov) |
| Iowa Child & Dependent Care Credit | 30%–75% of your federal credit if Iowa taxable income < $90,000 (refundable) | Same unless law changes | Choose either this OR Early Childhood Development Credit. (revenue.iowa.gov) |
| Iowa Early Childhood Development Credit | 25% of first 1,000∗∗perchildage3–5(refundable)ifIowataxableincome<∗∗1,000** per child age 3–5 (refundable) if Iowa taxable income < **90,000 | Same | Preschool/learning expenses only. (revenue.iowa.gov) |
| Iowa Tuition & Textbook Credit (K‑12) | 25% of first $2,000 per dependent (nonrefundable) | Same | Applies to accredited IA schools or qualifying private instruction; ESA‑funded expenses don’t qualify. (revenue.iowa.gov) |
| Education Credits (Federal) | AOTC up to 2,500∗∗/student(upto∗∗2,500**/student (up to **1,000 refundable); LLC up to $2,000/return | Same | Income limits apply; Form 8863. (irs.gov) |
| Marketplace Health Premium Tax Credit | Enhanced rules continue through 2025; no upper income cap if plan unaffordable | 2025 FPL for 3 = $26,650 (48 states) | Reconcile with Form 8962; enhancements extended to 2025 by IRA. (irs.gov, aspe.hhs.gov) |
What’s different about this guide (and why it beats the usual search results)
- Most top results explain the federal EITC basics but don’t tell Iowa single moms exactly how the state credit works, what line to use, how to prorate as a part‑year resident, or where to call. This guide gives you the exact Iowa lines, phone numbers, and links to Iowa’s own instructions. (revenue.iowa.gov)
- Many pages skip the Iowa‑only refundable credits (Child & Dependent Care and Early Childhood Development), or they leave out the percentages and income caps. We include the current Iowa tables and links. (revenue.iowa.gov)
- You’ll also see real timelines (PATH Act refund hold), exact 2024 and 2025 EITC amounts, and a plan‑B for when something goes wrong—plus statewide free tax help that actually answers the phone. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Start Here
The move to make first
- Use the IRS EITC tool (free): Check if you qualify and estimate your credit. Save/print the results to bring to your tax prep appointment. (irs.gov)
2024 filing season (returns filed in 2025): exact amounts and limits
- Max credit: 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (no kids).
- Income limits (Single/HOH): up to 59,899∗∗(3+kids),∗∗59,899** (3+ kids), **55,768 (2), 49,084∗∗(1),∗∗49,084** (1), **18,591 (no kids). Married filing jointly limits are higher.
- Investment income must be ≤ $11,600. (eitc.irs.gov)
2025 (planning): exact amounts and limits
- Max credit: 8,046∗∗(3+),∗∗8,046** (3+), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (no kids).
- Income limits (Single/HOH): up to 61,555∗∗(3+),∗∗61,555** (3+), **57,310 (2), 50,434∗∗(1),∗∗50,434** (1), **19,104 (no kids). Investment income ≤ $11,950. (irs.gov)
Reality checks and special rules
- You, your spouse (if filing jointly), and each child you claim for EITC must have valid SSNs by the return due date. ITIN‑only filers can’t claim the EITC (but may qualify for the nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents). (irs.gov)
- If you’re married but lived apart the last 6 months of the year and your child lived with you over half the year, you may claim EITC without filing jointly (special separated‑spouse rule). (irs.gov)
- Military moms: you can choose to include or exclude nontaxable combat pay when figuring EITC—run it both ways to see which is larger. (irs.gov)
How to claim it
- File Form 1040 and (if you have qualifying children) attach Schedule EIC. E‑file with direct deposit to speed things up. (irs.gov)
Timelines
- Federal law (PATH Act) holds refunds that include EITC/ACTC until mid‑February. For clean early e‑filers using direct deposit, the IRS says most refunds arrive by about March 3; Where’s My Refund should update by about February 22. Track at Where’s My Refund. (irs.gov)
What to bring (fast list)
- Photo ID; SSNs/ITINs; kids’ birth dates; Form W‑2/1099; prior‑year return; proof of address; direct‑deposit info; child‑care provider name/EIN for CDCC; school statements if using AOTC/LLC. See [IRS “What to bring” checklists] and VITA docs list when you book. (eitc.irs.gov)
If this doesn’t work
- Call the IRS at 800‑829‑1040 for account questions, or ask the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877‑777‑4778 if you’re facing a hardship or a stuck refund beyond normal timeframes. (revenue.iowa.gov, irs.gov)
Iowa EITC: 15% of your federal EITC (Refundable)
If you qualify for the federal EITC, you qualify for Iowa’s EITC at 15% of your federal amount. Claim it on IA 1040, Line 25. If you were a nonresident or part‑year resident, Iowa prorates the credit based on your Iowa‑source income percentage. (revenue.iowa.gov)
Sample Iowa EITC amounts (for quick math)
| Fed EITC | Iowa EITC (15%) |
|---|---|
| $7,830 | $1,174.50 |
| $6,960 | $1,044.00 |
| $4,213 | $631.95 |
| $632 | $94.80 |
For 2025 planning, multiply your estimated federal EITC by 0.15 (e.g., 8,046×0.15=8,046 × 0.15 = 1,206.90). (irs.gov)
Where to find it in the Iowa form
- See Iowa IA 1040 Expanded Instructions – Line 25 for the line, proration formula for part‑year/nonresidents, and a checkbox if you’re filing only to claim EITC. (revenue.iowa.gov)
If this doesn’t work
- Iowa Department of Revenue help: 515‑281‑3114 or 800‑367‑3388; refund status: Iowa Where’s My Refund. Target processing: about 30 days. (revenue.iowa.gov)
Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional CTC (refund portion)
Do this first
- If you have kids under 17 with SSNs, check your CTC using Schedule 8812 instructions and make sure your income and residency match the rules. (irs.gov)
Exact amounts
- 2024 tax year (filed in 2025): up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchild;refundableAdditionalCTC(ACTC)upto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child; refundable Additional CTC (ACTC) up to **1,700 per child.
- 2025 tax year (planning): the IRS inflation procedure keeps the ACTC refundable cap at 1,700∗∗for2025.Phase‑outbeginsat∗∗1,700** for 2025. Phase‑out begins at **200,000 (single/HOH) and $400,000 (MFJ). (irs.gov)
Timeline reality
- Refunds with ACTC are also held until mid‑February; most early e‑filed direct‑deposit refunds land around early March. (irs.gov)
If this doesn’t work
- If you can’t claim the CTC (for example, your child lacks a valid SSN), you may qualify for the Credit for Other Dependents (up to $500, nonrefundable). Ask a VITA site to check Schedule 8812 for you. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credits: Federal and Iowa
Start here
- If you paid for daycare/after‑school care so you could work or job‑hunt, gather receipts and your provider’s SSN/EIN. Complete federal Form 2441 first. (irs.gov)
Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCC)
- Credit equals 20%–35% of up to 3,000∗∗(onechild)or∗∗3,000** (one child) or **6,000 (two or more), depending on income. This one is generally nonrefundable. (irs.gov)
Iowa Child & Dependent Care Credit (Refundable)
- If your Iowa taxable income is under $90,000, you can claim a refundable IA credit of 30%–75% of the federal credit (you must choose this OR Early Childhood Development Credit). Percent depends on your Iowa taxable income:
| Iowa taxable income | Iowa CDCC % of federal |
|---|---|
| < $10,000 | 75% |
| 10,000–10,000 – 19,999 | 65% |
| 20,000–20,000 – 24,999 | 55% |
| 25,000–25,000 – 34,999 | 50% |
| 35,000–35,000 – 39,999 | 40% |
| 40,000–40,000 – 89,999 | 30% |
| ≥ $90,000 | 0% |
Source: Iowa Line 24 – Child & Dependent Care Credit. (revenue.iowa.gov)
Real‑world example
- You’re HOH with 38,000∗∗Iowataxableincomeand∗∗38,000** Iowa taxable income and **4,500 in qualifying child‑care expenses for two kids. Federal credit is typically 20%–35% of the allowed 6,000∗∗;sayyourfederalcreditcalculatesto∗∗6,000**; say your federal credit calculates to **1,200. Your Iowa CDCC would be 40% of that = $480 refund. (irs.gov, revenue.iowa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your income is too high for Iowa’s CDCC, consider claiming the Iowa Early Childhood Development Credit instead—if you have a 3–5‑year‑old and qualifying expenses. See next section. (revenue.iowa.gov)
Iowa Early Childhood Development Credit (Ages 3–5)
- Refundable credit equal to 25% of the first 1,000∗∗inqualifyingexpensesperchildage3–5(max∗∗1,000** in qualifying expenses per child age 3–5 (max **250/child), only if your Iowa taxable income is below $90,000 and you don’t claim the Iowa CDCC. Qualifying expenses include preschool tuition, books that improve child development, required supplies, and certain learning activities. See the full list and non‑qualifying items in Iowa’s instructions. (revenue.iowa.gov)
If this doesn’t work
- If your child is younger than 3 or you have higher income, you can still use the federal CDCC (nonrefundable) or a Dependent Care FSA through your employer (if offered). Ask a VITA site which option saves you more based on your income. (irs.gov)
Iowa Tuition & Textbook Credit (K‑12, public or private, including qualifying homeschool expenses)
- Nonrefundable credit equal to 25% of the first $2,000 per dependent for qualifying K‑12 tuition, textbooks, and required supplies at accredited Iowa schools or qualifying private instruction. If you used Iowa ESA funds, those ESA‑funded expenses can’t be claimed for this credit. See examples and the eligible/ ineligible list in Iowa’s 2024 IA 1040 instructions. Claim on IA 1040 Line 9. (revenue.iowa.gov)
If this doesn’t work
- Consider saving ahead with an Iowa 529 (College Savings Iowa) for future education costs. That’s separate from credits but can help with K‑12 tuition withdrawals and higher‑ed savings under Iowa rules. (revenue.iowa.gov)
Education Credits (College/Training): AOTC and LLC
- AOTC: up to 2,500∗∗pereligiblestudent;upto∗∗2,500** per eligible student; up to **1,000 refundable; first 4 years only; income limits apply; claim with Form 8863. (irs.gov)
- Lifetime Learning Credit: up to $2,000 per return; nonrefundable; for any year of post‑secondary or job‑skill courses; income limits apply. (irs.gov)
If this doesn’t work
- If your income is above the phase‑outs, ask VITA/Tax‑Aide about tuition/fee reimbursements or employer education benefits and how they interact with credits. Official guidance: IRS Pub 970. (irs.gov)
Marketplace Health Premium Tax Credit (PTC): for single moms buying coverage on HealthCare.gov
- The Inflation Reduction Act kept the enhanced PTC through 2025, so there’s no hard upper income cap if benchmark plan premiums are a big share of your income. You must reconcile your advance credit with Form 8962 at tax time. Official rules and Q&As: IRS PTC Q&A. 2025 poverty guidelines (48 states) for quick reference: 3‑person household 26,650∗∗;4‑person∗∗26,650**; 4‑person **32,150. (irs.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
If this doesn’t work
- If you got excess advance PTC and can’t pay, talk to a VITA preparer or an LITC (Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic) about options and safe ways to adjust your 2026 advance payments. LITC info below. (irs.gov)
Filing, Deadlines, and Refund Tracking (Iowa + IRS)
- Iowa personal returns are due April 30 each year (2024 returns were due April 30, 2025; 2025 returns are due April 30, 2026). Track state refunds (target ~30 days) at Iowa Where’s My Refund or call 515‑281‑3114 / 800‑367‑3388. (revenue.iowa.gov)
- IRS: Use Where’s My Refund?. For early filers claiming EITC/ACTC, expect deposit by about March 3 if no issues and direct deposit selected; the tool typically updates by late February for these returns. (irs.gov)
- Need an IRS face‑to‑face? Taxpayer Assistance Centers require appointments: call 844‑545‑5640. (irs.gov)
If this doesn’t work
- If your refund is delayed beyond normal windows and you’ve tried calling the IRS, contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877‑777‑4778. They can help if you’re facing hardship (eviction/shutoff notice, etc.). (irs.gov)
Head of Household, Shared Custody, Immigration/ITIN: Fast Answers
- Head of Household: generally, you must pay more than half the cost of keeping up a home and have a qualifying child living with you over half the year. Using HOH correctly can increase EITC and reduce tax. (irs.gov)
- Shared custody: only one person can claim a child for EITC in a year; tie‑breaker rules apply. A noncustodial parent can sometimes claim the CTC with Form 8332, but not EITC. (irs.gov)
- Immigrant/ITIN filers: EITC needs valid SSNs for you (and spouse if filing jointly) and each child claimed for EITC. If not, check the Credit for Other Dependents and education credits. For ITIN help, IRS TACs review documents by appointment at 844‑545‑5640. (irs.gov)
Diverse Communities: Specific Tips and Resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- If you share custody, make written agreements about who claims which child each year and keep school/medical records showing residency, in case the IRS asks. VITA and AARP Tax‑Aide sites provide inclusive assistance; bring your documentation. Use VITA locator or 211 Iowa. (eitc.irs.gov, 211iowa.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
- The EITC has special rules around disability income and residency; also, certain care expenses can qualify for the CDCC. Ask VITA to check both credits. See IRS “Special rules for taxpayers and relatives with disabilities.” (irs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers
- You can elect to include nontaxable combat pay to boost EITC if it helps; try both ways. VA benefits generally aren’t earned income for EITC. (irs.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms
- If your child has an SSN but you have an ITIN, you may qualify for CTC/ACTC only if the child has a valid SSN; EITC requires SSNs for everyone claimed for EITC. TACs offer in‑person ITIN document review (appointment line 844‑545‑5640). (irs.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources
- The Meskwaki Nation hosts a VITA site at 349 Meskwaki Rd., Tama, IA 52339 during tax season (confirm current hours). IRS list of tribal VITA sites: VITA sites serving Indian Country. (irs.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited internet/transportation
- Use 2‑1‑1 to locate mobile or pop‑up VITA clinics or arrange document drop‑off. Some AARP Tax‑Aide sites offer appointment phone schedulers. (211iowa.org, aarp.org)
- Single fathers raising kids
- Same credits and rules apply—EITC and CTC are based on income, residency, and relationship, not gender. Use the same steps in this guide. (irs.gov)
- Language access
- VITA/TCE, AARP Tax‑Aide, the IRS, and TAS offer interpreter services. IRS free over‑the‑phone interpretation is available in 350+ languages at TACs and most VITA sites. (irs.gov)
Step‑by‑Step Application Checklist
- Photo ID for you (and spouse if filing jointly).
- Social Security cards for you, your kids, and your spouse (or ITIN letters if applicable).
- Income forms: W‑2s, 1099s, self‑employment income/expense records.
- Direct deposit info (routing/account numbers) to get money faster.
- Child care: provider name, address, EIN/SSN, and receipts for Form 2441.
- School forms: 1098‑T for AOTC/LLC; required supply lists/receipts for Iowa Tuition & Textbook Credit.
- Proof your child lived with you over half the year (school/medical/daycare records with your address).
- If separated: any legal separation or custody documents.
- Prior‑year return (helps speed verification at VITA/AARP).
- Health insurance Form 1095‑A (Marketplace) for PTC reconciliation.
(Use the VITA document list when making an appointment.) (eitc.irs.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Claiming a child who didn’t live with you over half the year for EITC—this triggers audits and delays.
- Missing or incorrect SSNs (or using an ITIN where an SSN is required for EITC/CTC).
- Forgetting to attach Schedule EIC when claiming kids.
- Paper filing when you could e‑file with direct deposit (adds weeks).
- Overstating childcare or school costs without receipts (Iowa may ask for proof).
- Filing too early with missing W‑2s/1095‑A—corrections can freeze refunds.
- Not checking that your refund will be held until mid‑February if you claim EITC/ACTC and then planning bills around money that can’t arrive earlier. (irs.gov)
Local Free Tax Help and State Contacts
- Free IRS‑certified help (VITA/TCE): 800‑906‑9887 or IRS VITA locator. AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669 or AARP Tax‑Aide. (eitc.irs.gov, press.aarp.org)
- The Iowa Center for Economic Success (statewide VITA coalition): 515‑283‑0940, Schedule a VITA appointment. (theiowacenter.org)
- Iowa Department of Revenue (questions/refunds): 515‑281‑3114 or 800‑367‑3388; Where’s My Refund. (revenue.iowa.gov)
- Iowa 211 (statewide referrals to VITA, AARP, and more): dial 2‑1‑1 or 866‑813‑1731; 211 Iowa. (211iowa.org)
- IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (appointments): 844‑545‑5640. Refund tracking: Where’s My Refund?. (irs.gov)
- Legal help with IRS disputes: Iowa Legal Aid 800‑532‑1275; Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITC) near you: TAS LITC map. (iowalegalaid.org, irs.gov)
Resources by Region (use these to lock in an appointment fast)
- Des Moines & Central Iowa
- The Iowa Center VITA: 515‑283‑0940; Tax Assistance.
- United Way of Central Iowa tax help: 515‑283‑0940 (scheduling) or dial 2‑1‑1. (theiowacenter.org, search.ne211.org)
- Eastern Iowa (Iowa City/Cedar Rapids/Quad Cities)
- Check 211 for VITA sites by ZIP (Iowa City library, community centers often host): dial 2‑1‑1 or 866‑813‑1731. (211iowa.org)
- Western Iowa (Council Bluffs/Sioux City)
- Use 2‑1‑1 to find nearest VITA/AARP Tax‑Aide; ask about evening hours or drop‑off options. (211iowa.org)
- Waterloo/Cedar Valley, Ames, Dubuque, Mason City, Ottumwa, Burlington, Muscatine
- 211 can route you to local VITA partners; many sites open Feb–Apr, some offer off‑season help. Muscatine Cooperative/VITA is part of The Iowa Center network—confirm dates. (211iowa.org, theiowacenter.org)
- Meskwaki Nation (Tama)
- Tribal VITA site listed at 349 Meskwaki Rd., Tama during filing season (verify hours each year). (irs.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Two kids, Head of Household, wages 27,500∗∗(2024).EITClikelyinthe∗∗27,500** (2024). EITC likely in the **5,000–6,000∗∗rangefederally,plusIowa∗∗156,000** range federally, plus Iowa **15%** on top. If your federal EITC calculates to **6,200 (illustrative), your Iowa EITC adds $930—so filing both returns matters. Use the IRS Assistant and Iowa EITC line to make it official. (irs.gov, revenue.iowa.gov)
- Paying 500/month∗∗after‑schoolcarefortwokids(Jan–Jun=∗∗500/month** after‑school care for two kids (Jan–Jun = **3,000). Federal CDCC uses 3,000∗∗ofyour∗∗3,000** of your **6,000 max and gives you 20%–35% depending on income (say 600∗∗).WithIowataxableincome∗∗600**). With Iowa taxable income **32,000, Iowa CDCC = 50% of federal = $300 refund. Keep receipts and provider EIN. (irs.gov, revenue.iowa.gov)
FAQs (Iowa‑specific)
- When are Iowa returns due and how long do state refunds take?
- Due April 30. State refunds target about 30 days; check status online or call 515‑281‑3114 / 800‑367‑3388. (revenue.iowa.gov)
- I qualify for federal EITC—do I automatically get Iowa EITC?
- Yes. Iowa equals 15% of your federal EITC, refundable. Claim on IA 1040, Line 25. (revenue.iowa.gov)
- I moved into Iowa in August. Can I still get Iowa EITC?
- Yes, but Iowa prorates for part‑year/nonresidents using your Iowa income percentage (see IA 1040 Line 25 instructions). (revenue.iowa.gov)
- My child’s other parent sometimes claims the child. Who gets EITC?
- Only one person can claim a child for EITC each year; tie‑breaker rules apply. Keep school/medical records to prove where the child lived most of the year. (irs.gov)
- Can I get EITC if I have an ITIN?
- EITC requires valid SSNs for you (and spouse if filing jointly) and each child claimed. Consider other credits like the Credit for Other Dependents. (irs.gov)
- What’s the Iowa Early Childhood Development Credit again?
- Refundable 25% of the first 1,000∗∗perchildage3–5(incomecap∗∗1,000** per child age 3–5 (income cap **90,000). You must choose this or the Iowa CDCC. (revenue.iowa.gov)
- Are summer day camps eligible for child‑care credits?
- Day camps can qualify for the federal CDCC; overnight camps don’t. Iowa’s credit piggybacks the federal amount for eligible expenses. (irs.gov)
- How do I track my federal refund?
- Use Where’s My Refund?. EITC/ACTC refunds are held until mid‑February; most early filers see deposits by about March 3. (irs.gov)
- I can’t afford a preparer. Who will help me file correctly?
- VITA/TCE and AARP Tax‑Aide file for free: 800‑906‑9887 or 888‑227‑7669; or dial 2‑1‑1 for Iowa scheduling. (eitc.irs.gov, press.aarp.org, 211iowa.org)
- My return has been “under review” for weeks. What next?
- If the IRS has passed normal timeframes and you’re facing a hardship (eviction, shut‑off), call TAS at 877‑777‑4778 for help. (irs.gov)
What to do if things go sideways (Plan B menu)
- Refund frozen or letters you don’t understand? Call IRS 800‑829‑1040 and ask what they need; if hardship, call TAS 877‑777‑4778.
- Can’t get an appointment fast enough? Dial 2‑1‑1 and ask for VITA/AARP sites with next‑available slots or drop‑off options.
- Suspect identity theft? Place an identity‑theft report with the IRS and ask about an IP PIN for next year (search “IRS Get an IP PIN”).
- Appeals or audits you can’t handle? Call Iowa Legal Aid 800‑532‑1275 or check the LITC map for a clinic near you. (iowalegalaid.org, irs.gov)
About This Guide
- Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
- Sources include the Iowa Department of Revenue, IRS publications and tools, HHS poverty guidelines, and established nonprofits.
- We follow our Editorial Standards (official‑source use, link verification, 48‑hour corrections). Last editorial standards update: August 2025.
Verification highlights:
- Federal EITC 2024/2025 amounts and limits (IRS EITC pages and tables). (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- Iowa EITC = 15% of federal; line references and proration formula (Iowa DOR). (revenue.iowa.gov)
- Iowa CDCC/Early Childhood Development details and income caps (Iowa DOR). (revenue.iowa.gov)
- CTC/ACTC amounts for 2024/2025 (Schedule 8812; Rev. Proc. 2024‑45). (irs.gov)
- PATH Act refund timing (IRS). (irs.gov)
- 2025 HHS poverty guidelines (ASPE). (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Free tax help lines/sites (IRS VITA, AARP, 211 Iowa, The Iowa Center). (eitc.irs.gov, press.aarp.org, 211iowa.org, theiowacenter.org)
Questions or corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48–72 hours and post urgent corrections within 24 hours.
Disclaimer
- Tax laws and dollar amounts change. This guide uses the most accurate information available as of August–September 2025. Always confirm on official sites or with a certified preparer before filing.
- This guide is for general information, not legal or tax advice. We are independent researchers—not government employees—and we can’t guarantee your specific outcome.
- Keep your personal data safe: file only on secure, trusted sites (look for “https”), never email SSNs or full tax docs, and avoid sharing sensitive info over public Wi‑Fi.
- Site security note: we never request your SSN or bank details. If any page pretending to be us asks for that, close it and report it.
- If you find an error or a broken link, please email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.
Final tip
Don’t leave money on the table. Book a free VITA or AARP Tax‑Aide appointment, bring the checklist above, and claim the credits you earned. Even if you made too little to “have to” file, you must file to receive EITC, ACTC, and many refunds.
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- 🥛 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
