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

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, numbers-first guide to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and related federal and Louisiana tax credits that single mothers in Louisiana can use right now. Every figure you see below links to an official source so you can double‑check fast.

Quick Help Box

• Use the IRS EITC Assistant to see your exact eligibility and estimate your credit. It’s quick and free. Then file a return even if you don’t “have to” file. IRS EITC Assistant & Press Info. (eitc.irs.gov)
• For tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025), the federal EITC tops out at up to $7,830; Louisiana adds a refundable state EITC equal to 5% of your federal EITC (through Dec. 31, 2030). [IRS EITC 2024 fast facts] and [Louisiana R.S. 47:297.8]. (eitc.irs.gov, legis.la.gov)
• Filing help is free. Call 800‑906‑9887 to find a nearby IRS VITA site, or 888‑227‑7669 for AARP Tax‑Aide. [IRS VITA/TCE overview]. (irs.gov)
• EITC/ACTC refund timing: by law, the IRS can’t release refunds with EITC/ACTC before mid‑February. Most early filers see deposits by late February or early March (check your exact date in “Where’s My Refund?”). [IRS guidance]. (irs.gov)
• Louisiana refund status: use [LDR “Where’s My Refund?”], or call 225‑922‑3270 or 888‑829‑3071 24/7. Electronic returns: up to 4 weeks; paper: up to 8 weeks. (revenue.la.gov)
• Paying for daycare for a child under 6 in a quality‑rated center? Louisiana’s refundable School Readiness Tax Credit can add on top of the regular child care credit—worth 50%–200% of your Louisiana child care credit depending on the center’s star rating. You’ll need Form R‑10614 from the center. [LDR School Readiness page]. (revenue.louisiana.gov)

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What’s in this guide

• How much you can get (EITC 2024) + Louisiana add‑ons
• What’s new for 2025 (planning for next season)
• Eligibility rules (in plain language)
• Step‑by‑step filing (with free help and links)
• Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCTC)
• Louisiana child care credits (state child care expense credit + School Readiness)
• Real‑world examples
• Timelines and refund tracking
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Plan B options if a claim is denied
• Local contacts and organizations
• Diverse communities: extra help for unique situations
• Quick Reference Cheat Sheet and Application Checklist

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The most important move right now

• File a federal and state return—even if your income is low enough that you don’t usually file. That’s the only way to get the EITC, Child Tax Credit refunds, and Louisiana’s state credits. [IRS refundable credits page]. (irs.gov)

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EITC amounts for tax year 2024 (filed in 2025)

Here are the official federal limits and ranges for 2024. Your actual credit depends on your income, filing status, and number of children.

Table: Federal EITC (2024) and matching Louisiana EITC (5% of federal)

Sources: [IRS EITC 2024 income limits and ranges]; [LA EITC = 5% of federal, R.S. 47:297.8]. (eitc.irs.gov, legis.la.gov)

Reality check

• Hitting the max requires income in a specific “sweet spot.” Many single moms qualify but don’t get the absolute maximum.
• If you got unemployment or other non‑earned income, that doesn’t count as “earned income” for EITC. Also, investment income over $11,600 for 2024 makes you ineligible. [IRS Pub. 596]. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your EITC seems lower than you expected, run your numbers through the [IRS EITC Assistant] and ask a VITA/TCE preparer to review for free. (irs.gov)

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Planning ahead: EITC amounts for tax year 2025 (filed in 2026)

• For 2025, the federal maximums (before Louisiana’s add‑on) are scheduled at: $8,046\ast \ast (3+kids),\ast \ast$7,152 (2 kids), $4,328\ast \ast (1child),and\ast \ast$649 (no children). Louisiana’s EITC remains 5% of your federal amount through 2030. [Taxpayer Advocate blog (Feb 2025)] and [R.S. 47:297.8]. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, legis.la.gov)
• 2025 income thresholds increase with inflation; the IRS will publish the full 2025 tables before filing opens in 2026. Check the IRS EITC site for updated limits. [IRS EITC central]. (eitc.irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you’re budgeting for 2025 now, plan conservatively using 2024 limits, then update when the IRS posts the 2025 tables.

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Who qualifies (the fast version)

• You must have earned income (wages or self‑employment).
• You, your child(ren), and (if filing jointly) your spouse must have valid Social Security numbers by the due date of your return.
• Investment income must be $11,600 or less for 2024.
• Your filing status can be single or head of household. If you’re married, you usually must file jointly. Some separated spouses may still qualify under a special rule.
• Each qualifying child must meet relationship, age, residency, and SSN rules.

Sources: [IRS Pub. 596 quick rules]; [IRS EITC press info 2024]. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If someone else claimed your child, or there’s a custody conflict, get free help from VITA or the Taxpayer Advocate Service. Use VITA locator 800‑906‑9887, TAS info on EITC, and keep all proof of where your child lived. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)

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How to file and actually get the money

Most important action: file electronically and choose direct deposit. That’s the fastest path for both federal and Louisiana refunds.

• Free filing and help:
  • IRS VITA/TCE: call 800‑906‑9887 or use the [VITA locator]. AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov)
  • IRS Free File (AGI ≤ $84,000 for 2024, at IRS.gov): [IRS Free File page]. (irs.gov)
  • Military families: MilTax (free federal + up to 3 state returns, year‑round help). Call 800‑342‑9647 or use [MilTax: Free Software & Support]. (militaryonesource.mil)
• Louisiana filing: You can e‑file the state return through most tax software or file free via [Louisiana File Online (LDR e‑services)]. State individual returns are due May 15 each year; an automatic extension to mid‑November is available for filing (not for paying). (revenue.louisiana.gov, revenue.louisiana.gov)
• Refund timelines:
  • Federal: the IRS can’t release EITC/ACTC refunds before mid‑February. Most early EITC/ACTC filers see direct deposits by the first week of March if no issues. Track your date in [IRS “Where’s My Refund?”]. (irs.gov)
  • Louisiana: e‑filed returns typically process in up to 4 weeks (paper up to 8). Track status in [LDR Where’s My Refund?]. (revenue.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your refund is delayed, check both the IRS and LDR trackers daily (they update overnight), then call only if the site tells you to. Federal PATH Act delays can’t be bypassed. (irs.gov)

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The Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), 2024

• Credit amount: up to $2,000\ast \ast perqualifyingchildunder17;upto\ast \ast$1,700 of that may be refundable as ACTC for 2024. [Schedule 8812 instructions; IRS refundable credits page]. (irs.gov)
• Phase‑out: starts at $200,000\ast \ast MAGI(single/HoH)or\ast \ast$400,000 (MFJ). [Taxpayer Advocate CTC page; IRS overview]. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• Expect a delay: refunds that include ACTC are also held until mid‑February due to law (PATH Act). [IRS news + guidance]. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you’re missing an SSN for your child by the due date, you can’t claim the CTC for that child this year; ask a VITA/TCE preparer about the nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents (up to $500). [IRS key messages]. (eitc.irs.gov)

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Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) — federal (nonrefundable)

• If you paid for care so you could work or look for work, you may claim up to $3,000\ast \ast (onechild)or\ast \ast$6,000 (two or more) of eligible expenses. The credit rate (20%–35%) depends on income; maximum credit is $1,050\ast \ast or\ast \ast$2,100. Use Form 2441. [IRS Form 2441 instructions; Pub. 503]. (irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your income is too low to benefit from the nonrefundable federal credit, Louisiana’s refundable School Readiness Tax Credit may still pay out (see below). (revenue.louisiana.gov)

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Louisiana’s child care tax breaks (state)

Louisiana offers two state‑level child care benefits that can add up for single moms with young children in daycare.

1) Louisiana Child Care Expense Credit (based on the federal CDCTC) — R.S. 47:297.4

• If your federal AGI is ≤ $25,000\ast \ast ,Louisianacredits\ast \ast 50$25,001–$35,000\ast \ast ,creditis\ast \ast 30$35,001–$60,000\ast \ast ,creditis\ast \ast 10$60,000, credit is 10% of federal CDCTC but capped at $25. [Statute text]. (law.justia.com)

Table: Louisiana Child Care Expense Credit (state) by AGI

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your income is over $25,000 and your state credit doesn’t wipe out your tax, you can still carry forward the unused amount for up to 5 years. Keep your paperwork. [R.S. 47:297.4]. (law.justia.com)

2) School Readiness Tax Credit for Parents — R.S. 47:6104

• If your child (under age 6) attended a Louisiana Quality Start‑rated child care center (2‑ to 5‑stars), you can claim an extra School Readiness credit on top of the regular LA child care credit. The value is 50%–200% of your LA child care credit based on the center’s star rating. If your federal AGI ≤ $25,000, this School Readiness credit is refundable. You must get Form R‑10614 from the center. [Louisiana Dept. of Revenue page]. (revenue.louisiana.gov)

Table: School Readiness Tax Credit for Parents (adds to the LA child care credit)

• Verify a center’s rating: use the Quality Start directory/LDE performance profiles. [Quality Start info; LDE performance profiles]. (dcfs.louisiana.gov, doe.louisiana.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your center can’t provide Form R‑10614, ask the director to download/complete it. If they refuse, call LDR’s Individual Income line 225‑219‑0102 or the general line 855‑307‑3893 for guidance. [LDR contacts]. (esweb.revenue.louisiana.gov, revenue.la.gov)

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Real‑world examples (illustrations)

• You have two kids (6 and 9), made $28,000\ast \ast onaW‑2in2024,andpaid\ast \ast$4,800 for after‑school care for the 6‑year‑old.
  • Federal: You likely qualify for EITC (exact amount depends on your final AGI; confirm with the IRS Assistant) and the nonrefundable CDCTC on $3,000 of expenses (20%–35% rate). [IRS Pub. 596; Form 2441]. (irs.gov)
  • Louisiana: You may get the state child care credit worth 30% of your federal CDCTC if your AGI is between $25,001–$35,000 (nonrefundable). If the center is Quality Start 3‑star, you can add 100% of that state child care credit again via School Readiness (refundable if AGI ≤ $25,000). [R.S. 47:297.4; LDR School Readiness]. (law.justia.com, revenue.louisiana.gov)
• You have a toddler in a 4‑star Quality Start center and AGI $22,000.
  • Your state child care credit is refundable (50% of the unreduced federal CDCTC). The School Readiness parent credit adds 150% of that number. If your federal CDCTC is small or zero, this combo can still produce a Louisiana refund because the School Readiness credit for low‑income filers is refundable. [R.S. 47:297.4; LDR School Readiness]. (law.justia.com, revenue.louisiana.gov)

Tip

• Keep all invoices and proof of payment to care providers. You’ll need their EIN/SSN for Form 2441 and for the state credits. [Form 2441 instructions]. (irs.gov)

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Filing deadlines, timing, and tracking

• Federal filing season start is announced each January; refunds with EITC/ACTC are held until mid‑February. IRS posts most early EITC/ACTC deposit dates by late February; many see funds by the first week of March. Track in [IRS “Where’s My Refund?”]. (irs.gov)
• Louisiana individual returns are due May 15. Louisiana grants an automatic filing extension to mid‑November (filing only; tax due by May 15 to avoid penalties/interest). [LDR due date & extension FAQs; LDR news]. (revenue.louisiana.gov)
• Louisiana refund tracking: [Where’s My Refund?] online, or call 225‑922‑3270 or 888‑829‑3071. Expect up to 4 weeks (e‑file) or 8 weeks (paper). (revenue.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your refund is offset for debts (child support, student loans, taxes), the federal Bureau of the Fiscal Service may reduce it. Louisiana may offset state debts. Read the Taxpayer Advocate’s refund guide and contact the agency listed on your offset notice. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)

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2025 Louisiana tax changes that might affect you

• Flat state income tax rate 3% starting with tax years beginning Jan 1, 2025, plus a higher standard deduction ($12,500\ast \ast single;\ast \ast$25,000 head of household). These don’t change the EITC but can change your state refund. [LDR FAQs]. (revenue.louisiana.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Table: At‑a‑glance credit amounts and links

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Step‑by‑step: Claim what you’re due

• Gather documents:
  • Photo ID; SSNs for you and children; W‑2s/1099s; child care provider’s name, address, and EIN/SSN; daycare receipts; bank routing/account number; last year’s return; Form R‑10614 from your Quality Start center (for School Readiness); and any IRS/LDR letters. [IRS “What to bring” for VITA/TCE]. (irs.gov)
• Check EITC eligibility with the IRS Assistant; if eligible, proceed to file both federal and Louisiana returns. [IRS EITC info]. (eitc.irs.gov)
• Claim Louisiana state EITC automatically when you complete your state return (it mirrors your federal EITC). Use [LDR forms page] if paper filing. (revenue.louisiana.gov)
• If you paid for child care:
  • Complete federal Form 2441; then apply the Louisiana child care credit and School Readiness credit on your state return. Attach Form R‑10614 as needed. [Form 2441 Instructions; LDR School Readiness]. (irs.gov, revenue.louisiana.gov)
• File electronically with direct deposit. Track refunds at the IRS and LDR sites. [IRS & LDR refund tools]. (irs.gov, revenue.la.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If returns reject or you hit a snag, call VITA (800‑906‑9887), AARP (888‑227‑7669), or LDR general assistance 855‑307‑3893. (irs.gov, revenue.la.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing SSNs or using an ITIN for a child for CTC—CTC requires a child’s SSN issued by the return due date. [IRS key messages; Schedule 8812]. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• Claiming a child who doesn’t meet residency rules for EITC (must live with you more than half the year). [IRS Pub. 596]. (irs.gov)
• Forgetting the investment income cap ($11,600 for 2024) for EITC. [IRS Pub. 596]. (irs.gov)
• Paying a preparer you can’t afford when free help is available via VITA/TCE/AARP. [IRS VITA/TCE]. (irs.gov)
• Not getting Form R‑10614 from your child’s Quality Start center—without it, School Readiness claims slow down or get denied. [LDR School Readiness]. (revenue.louisiana.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If the IRS or LDR disallows a credit, respond by the deadline on the letter. Bring the letter and your documents to a VITA/TCE site for free help and consider contacting the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you face hardship. [TAS EITC page]. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)

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Local contacts and free help (Louisiana)

• Louisiana Department of Revenue (LDR): 855‑307‑3893 (general). Individual Income direct: 225‑219‑0102. Office locations in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Lafayette, Alexandria, Monroe, Shreveport (see LDR contact page). [LDR contact & offices]. (revenue.la.gov, revenue.louisiana.gov)
• LDR refunds: online [Where’s My Refund?] or call 225‑922‑3270 / 888‑829‑3071 (24/7). (revenue.la.gov)
• 211 Louisiana: dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898‑211 for quick referrals to VITA sites, child care resources, and emergency help. [Louisiana 211]. (launitedway.org)
• AARP Tax‑Aide (free): 888‑227‑7669; see the state locator during tax season. [AARP Tax‑Aide]. (aarp.org)
• Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans (benefits screening, some VITA partnerships): 504‑523‑3755. [CCANO]. (catholiccharitiesusa.org)

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Diverse communities: extra pointers and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • Free filing help doesn’t require you to be an AARP member or meet special criteria—AARP Tax‑Aide serves everyone, and VITA sites welcome all. Language services are available at many sites. [IRS VITA/TCE notes]. (irs.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or raising a child with disabilities
  • Disability benefits can be tricky with EITC. Use the IRS EITC Assistant and Pub. 596 guidance, or ask a VITA preparer to review. [IRS Pub. 596]. (irs.gov)
• Veteran and active‑duty single moms
  • Use MilTax for free software and one‑on‑one tax experts who know military rules. Phone 800‑342‑9647. Military VITA sites are also available. [Military OneSource MilTax]. (militaryonesource.mil)
• Immigrant and refugee moms
  • You need SSNs for EITC/CTC. If you have an ITIN and children do not have SSNs yet, ask VITA about the nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents ($500) and how to plan for next year. [IRS CTC/ODC messages]. (eitc.irs.gov)
• Tribal citizens
  • Many communities host VITA events seasonally. Call 800‑906‑9887 to find a site and ask about Native community locations. [IRS VITA locator]. (irs.gov)
• Rural moms with limited internet
  • Call 211 to find the closest in‑person VITA or AARP Tax‑Aide site by parish and check hours. [Louisiana 211]. (launitedway.org)
• Single fathers and other caregivers
  • Rules are the same—if the child lived with you more than half the year and meets the tests, you may claim. When in doubt, get a free second look at VITA. [IRS Pub. 596]. (irs.gov)
• Language access
  • Many VITA/TCE sites list available languages, and interpreters can be arranged. Ask when you call 800‑906‑9887. [IRS VITA/TCE]. (irs.gov)

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Tables you can use while filing

Federal vs. Louisiana EITC at a glance (2024)

Sources: [IRS EITC fast facts 2024]; [R.S. 47:297.8]. (eitc.irs.gov, legis.la.gov)

LA Child Care Expense Credit (AGI‑based)

Source: [R.S. 47:297.4]. (law.justia.com)

School Readiness Tax Credit (parent credit based on center rating)

Source: [LDR School Readiness]. (revenue.louisiana.gov)

Child Tax Credit (2024)

Source: [Schedule 8812 instructions]. (irs.gov)

Child & Dependent Care Credit (federal)

Source: [IRS Form 2441 instructions]. (irs.gov)

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FAQs (Louisiana‑specific)

• Does Louisiana have its own EITC?
  • Yes. It’s 5% of your federal EITC through Dec. 31, 2030, and it’s refundable. [R.S. 47:297.8]. (legis.la.gov)
• Where do I claim Louisiana’s EITC?
  • On your Louisiana individual return (IT‑540). If you e‑file, the software will calculate it automatically from your federal EITC. [LDR forms page]. (revenue.louisiana.gov)
• What’s the Louisiana filing deadline?
  • May 15. Automatic filing extension to around mid‑November (filing only). [LDR due date & extension]. (revenue.louisiana.gov)
• When will I get my IRS refund if I claim EITC/ACTC?
  • Not before mid‑February by law; most early filers see payments by late Feb/early March if no issues. [IRS refund timing]. (irs.gov)
• How do I check my Louisiana refund?
  • Use [LDR “Where’s My Refund?”] or call 225‑922‑3270 / 888‑829‑3071. E‑filed returns: up to 4 weeks; paper: up to 8. (revenue.la.gov)
• What if my child care center won’t give me Form R‑10614 for the School Readiness credit?
  • Ask the director again (it’s standard). If needed, call LDR Individual Income 225‑219‑0102. [LDR School Readiness; LDR contact]. (revenue.louisiana.gov, esweb.revenue.louisiana.gov)
• Is there a Louisiana Child Tax Credit?
  • No separate state CTC. Use the federal CTC/ACTC. [IRS Schedule 8812]. (irs.gov)
• Can married but separated parents qualify for EITC?
  • Sometimes, under a special rule. Review Pub. 596 or get VITA help. [IRS Pub. 596]. (irs.gov)
• What if someone else claimed my child?
  • You may still be eligible. Respond to IRS letters quickly and get free help at VITA/TCE. [TAS EITC guidance]. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
• How do I find a quality‑rated child care center?
  • Use Quality Start and the LDE site with performance profiles by parish. [Quality Start; LDE profiles]. (dcfs.louisiana.gov, doe.louisiana.gov)

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Application Checklist

• Government‑issued photo ID for you (and spouse if filing jointly)
• Social Security cards/SSNs for you and all children
• W‑2s/1099s; any unemployment 1099‑G; SSA‑1099 if applicable
• Child care provider’s legal name, address, and EIN/SSN; total amounts paid; receipts
• Bank routing + account number for direct deposit
• Last year’s returns (federal and state), if available
• Form R‑10614 from your child’s Quality Start center (School Readiness)
• Any IRS or LDR letters/notices

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What to do if your claim is denied or your refund is delayed (Plan B)

• Federal: Check the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool daily; if the IRS requests documents, respond by the date on the notice. If you face hardship (eviction notice, utility shut‑off), the Taxpayer Advocate Service can sometimes help expedite once legal holds lift. [IRS refund tools; TAS expediting guidance]. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
• State: Use LDR “Where’s My Refund?” and, if needed, call 225‑219‑0102 (individual income) or the main line 855‑307‑3893. Keep copies of returns and any receipts you sent. [LDR refund and contact pages]. (revenue.la.gov, revenue.la.gov)

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About Louisiana’s unique School Readiness system (for daycare credits)

• Louisiana’s “Quality Start” system rates centers from 1 to 5 stars. The higher the rating, the bigger your School Readiness tax credit (50% to 200% on top of your state child care credit). Verify the center’s rating and ask for Form R‑10614. [LDR School Readiness; Quality Start]. (revenue.louisiana.gov, dcfs.louisiana.gov)

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Local organizations and charities that can help

• Louisiana 211 (all parishes): dial 211 or text ZIP to 898‑211 for referrals to child care, rent/utility help, and free tax prep. [Louisiana 211]. (launitedway.org)
• Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans (benefits screening/resources): 504‑523‑3755. [CCANO]. (catholiccharitiesusa.org)
• AARP Tax‑Aide (statewide free tax help): 888‑227‑7669; online locator opens each season. [AARP Tax‑Aide]. (aarp.org)
• Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana (multiple offices; workforce and support services—ask about VITA partners in your area): New Orleans main 504‑456‑2622. [Goodwill SELA contacts]. (goodwillno.org)

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Reality checks, tips, and warnings

• EITC audits are common if info conflicts (like both parents claiming the same child). Keep school and medical records showing your child’s address for more than half the year. [IRS Pub. 596]. (irs.gov)
• Refund delays around Presidents Day are normal—phone lines are slammed; use online tools first. [IRS “Tax Time Guide”]. (irs.gov)
• Don’t guess on the child care provider’s EIN/SSN. If your sitter won’t provide info, you can still file with a note, but expect processing delays. [Form 2441 instructions]. (irs.gov)
• If you moved or changed banks, update the address with both IRS and LDR to avoid lost checks. Use direct deposit when possible. [IRS refund guidance; LDR e‑services]. (irs.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Louisiana Department of Revenue, IRS/USDA/HUD where applicable, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

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.

Editorial policy: See our Editorial Policy and research standards. This page details our use of primary sources (.gov), verification and update timelines. (Updated August 2025.)

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Disclaimer

• Program amounts, credit rates, and deadlines change. Always verify with the IRS and the Louisiana Department of Revenue before you file.
• This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. For personal advice, use a qualified tax preparer or a free IRS VITA/TCE site.
• Security note: To keep your information safe, never email your SSN or bank details. Use official IRS/LDR portals or in‑person services.

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Sources (selected)

• IRS EITC 2024 income limits and ranges; fast facts and refund timing; Pub. 596: (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• IRS CTC/ACTC (2024) Schedule 8812; refundable credits overview: (irs.gov)
• IRS CDCTC (Form 2441 instructions; Pub. 503): (irs.gov)
• Louisiana EITC statute (R.S. 47:297.8) and state child care credit (R.S. 47:297.4): (legis.la.gov, law.justia.com)
• Louisiana School Readiness Tax Credits (parents; Form R‑10614): (revenue.louisiana.gov)
• Louisiana filing deadlines and 2025 tax changes (flat 3% rate; higher standard deduction): (revenue.louisiana.gov)
• Louisiana refund tracking and processing time: (revenue.la.gov)
• Free filing help: IRS VITA/TCE locator; AARP Tax‑Aide; MilTax: (irs.gov, aarp.org, militaryonesource.mil)
• Quality Start and LDE performance profiles (verify center ratings): (dcfs.louisiana.gov, doe.louisiana.gov)

If you need a quick double‑check on any number, use the links above or call a VITA site. This guide is designed so you can scan, click, and act without digging through fine print.

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