EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Maryland
Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel
Maryland 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, links, and phone numbers you need to claim every dollar you qualify for in Maryland. Everything here is sourced to official government sites or established nonprofits and includes realistic timelines and backup plans.
Quick Help Box
- • Need free in‑person filing help now? Call IRS VITA at 1‑800‑906‑9887 or AARP Tax‑Aide at 1‑888‑227‑7669 to find a free site near you. These programs help you file federal and Maryland returns and claim credits. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, aarp.org)
- • Maryland tax questions or refund issues? Call the Comptroller’s Taxpayer Services at 410‑260‑7980 or 1‑800‑638‑2937 (toll‑free), or email taxhelp@marylandtaxes.gov. (marylandtaxes.gov)
- • Check a Maryland refund: online or call 410‑260‑7701 or 1‑800‑218‑8160. Paper returns take about 30 days to process; e‑file direct deposit is usually within several days after processing. (marylandtaxes.gov)
- • EITC/ACTC refunds are held until mid‑February by law. Earliest deposits are usually the first week of March if you e‑file and choose direct deposit. Track status on IRS “Where’s My Refund.” (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
- • ITIN filer? Maryland lets you claim the state EITC with an ITIN (even though federal EITC requires SSNs). See details and an important Direct File note below. (marylandtaxes.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (2024 tax year amounts filed in 2025 unless noted)
| Credit | Who can qualify | Max amount | Maryland rules you need | How to claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | Working filers under set income limits | 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2 kids), 4,213∗∗(1kid),∗∗4,213** (1 kid), **632 (no kids) | SSNs required for you/spouse/kids for federal EITC | File Form 1040 + Schedule EIC; see IRS eligibility and limits. (eitc.irs.gov) |
| Maryland Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | Working MD filers; ITIN allowed for Maryland EITC | % of federal EITC (see next table) | Nonrefundable state EITC: 50% of federal (with kids/married). Refundable state EITC: 45% of federal (with kids/married). Individuals with no qualifying child can claim 100% of federal for state EITC. ITIN filers eligible for Maryland EITC. | Claim on Form 502 (line 22/42 per instructions). (marylandcomptroller.gov, marylandtaxes.gov) |
| Maryland Child Tax Credit (CTC) | MD residents with FAGI ≤ $15,000 and a dependent under 6 or a dependent with a disability under 17 | $500 per child | Refundable; claimed on Form 502CR | See 502CR instructions and the Comptroller’s EarnedIt page. (marylandcomptroller.gov, marylandtaxes.gov) |
| Maryland Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCC) | If you got the federal CDCC (Form 2441) | Up to 32% of your federal credit; refundable for lower‑income filers | Refundable if FAGI ≤ 59,400∗∗(single/HOH/etc.)or≤∗∗59,400** (single/HOH/etc.) or ≤ **89,100 (MFJ). Above that, nonrefundable with phase‑down by income bracket. | Claim on Form 502CR Part B and (if refundable) Part CC. (marylandcomptroller.gov) |
| Montgomery County Working Families Income Supplement (County EITC) | Montgomery County residents who get the state refundable EITC | About 56% of your Maryland refundable EITC | Paid by county; checks typically issued in batches after state processing | See county info (“Cashback”) and Refundable EIC bulletin. (montgomerycountymd.gov, montgomerycountymd.gov) |
Start here: 3 fastest steps to put cash back in your pocket
- • Check your eligibility in 5 minutes.
- Federal EITC income limits (2024): up to 66,819∗∗(MFJ,3+kids)anddownto∗∗66,819** (MFJ, 3+ kids) and down to **18,591 (single/HOH, no kids). Max federal EITC amounts: 7,830∗∗(3+),∗∗7,830** (3+), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (0). Use the IRS EITC pages to verify your household. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Maryland EITC: if you qualify for federal EITC, you generally qualify for the Maryland EITC. Maryland allows ITIN filers to claim the state EITC (federal still requires SSNs). (marylandcomptroller.gov, marylandtaxes.gov)
- Not sure? Use the Comptroller’s Maryland EITC Assistant (quick Q&A to confirm state eligibility). (interactive2.marylandtaxes.gov)
- • File for free (and correctly).
- Free help in person: call VITA 1‑800‑906‑9887 or AARP 1‑888‑227‑7669 to book a free appointment. These IRS‑certified volunteers are trained to get your EITC/CTC right. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, aarp.org)
- File online: Maryland supports IRS Direct File (simple returns). Important: ITIN filers planning to claim the Maryland EITC should avoid Direct File for 2024 and use another method to maximize benefits. (marylandtaxes.gov)
- Need help finding a site fast? Dial 211 or use the 211 Maryland tax help page to get connected to free prep statewide (including CASH Campaign of Maryland). (211md.org)
- • Track your refund and know the wait.
- Federal: Because of the PATH Act, refunds claiming EITC/ACTC won’t be released until mid‑February; most direct deposits arrive by the first week of March if no issues. Use IRS “Where’s My Refund.” (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
- Maryland: E‑filed returns are usually processed the same day; direct deposit is typically within days after processing. Paper returns take about 30 days. Check status online or call 410‑260‑7701 or 1‑800‑218‑8160. (marylandtaxes.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your return is rejected or you’re stuck, call the Comptroller at 410‑260‑7980 or 1‑800‑638‑2937. If there’s a hardship or a dispute, contact the Comptroller’s Ombudsman at 410‑260‑6222 (they can escalate stubborn problems). (marylandtaxes.gov)
Federal credits most Maryland single mothers use
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Most single moms who worked at any point in the year should check EITC. For Tax Year 2024 (returns filed in 2025):
- Income limits: up to 66,819∗∗(marriedfilingjointly,3+kids)and∗∗66,819** (married filing jointly, 3+ kids) and **59,899 (single/HOH, 3+ kids). The limits step down for fewer kids and are 25,511∗∗(MFJ)and∗∗25,511** (MFJ) and **18,591 (single/HOH) if you have no kids. Investment income must be $11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Maximum credits: 7,830∗∗(3+),∗∗7,830** (3+), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (no kids). (eitc.irs.gov)
- Timeline reality check: EITC refunds don’t arrive until late February/early March even if you file early. This is a fraud‑prevention rule under the PATH Act. (irs.gov)
Looking ahead to Tax Year 2025 (returns you’ll file in 2026), the maxima are scheduled to increase to about 8,046∗∗(3+),∗∗8,046** (3+), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (no kids). Use the IRS EITC Assistant each year to confirm. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
Tips that matter:
- • If you’re separated and not filing jointly, you may still qualify for EITC under special rules—see the IRS “Who Qualifies” page before you assume you’re out. (irs.gov)
- • Military tip: You can elect to include nontaxable combat pay in earned income for EITC if it helps. Run it both ways. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t tell if a child “counts,” use the IRS tool or ask a VITA site to check the relationship, age, residency, and support tests. If the IRS questions your EITC, Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) can represent you for free or low cost. See the IRS LITC map to find a Maryland clinic. (irs.gov)
Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC)
- Amounts for 2024: up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchildunder17;upto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child under 17; up to **1,700 of that can be refundable (Additional CTC). Phaseouts start at 200,000∗∗(single/HOH)or∗∗200,000** (single/HOH) or **400,000 (MFJ). (irs.gov)
- Timeline reality check: Returns with ACTC are also held until mid‑February. Expect first‑week‑of‑March deposits if you e‑file with direct deposit and there are no issues. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied CTC because of a dependent issue or you need to amend, talk with VITA or an LITC. If you’re an ITIN filer with children who have SSNs, you may still be eligible for the federal CTC. (irs.gov)
Federal Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCC)
- For work‑related child care, the federal credit is 20%–35% of up to 3,000∗∗inexpensesforonechild,orupto∗∗3,000** in expenses for one child, or up to **6,000 for two or more. You must file Form 2441. (irs.gov)
- This federal credit is nonrefundable (it reduces tax to zero, but the excess doesn’t generate a refund). Maryland adds a powerful state version—see below. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a provider won’t give you their SSN/EIN for Form 2441, the IRS has instructions on documenting your attempt so you can still file. Ask a VITA site if you’re unsure. (irs.gov)
Maryland credits single moms should not miss
Maryland Earned Income Tax Credit (State EITC)
Here’s how Maryland’s EITC works (these are 2024 tax‑year rules):
- Nonrefundable Maryland EITC
- With at least one qualifying child OR if you are married (filing jointly or separately): claim 50% of your federal EITC against Maryland tax. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- No qualifying child (single, HOH, or qualifying surviving spouse): claim 100% of your federal EITC against Maryland tax. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- Refundable Maryland EITC
- With at least one qualifying child OR if you are married (filing jointly or separately): you can get a refund for the amount by which 45% of your federal EITC exceeds your Maryland state tax. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- No qualifying child: Maryland uses a worksheet that can make part of your EITC refundable if your EITC is more than your Maryland tax. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- ITIN filers: Maryland permanently allows ITIN filers to claim the state EITC (this is separate from federal rules). (marylandtaxes.gov)
- Forms: claim on Maryland Form 502 (line 22 for EIC; line 42 for refundable EIC), using the instructions in the 2024 Resident Booklet. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
Table: What the Maryland EITC can look like at the max (TY 2024)
| Family situation | Federal EITC max | Nonrefundable MD EITC | Refundable MD EITC ceiling (before subtracting any state tax) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3+ qualifying children | $7,830 | $3,915 (50%) | $3,523.50 (45%) (eitc.irs.gov, marylandcomptroller.gov) |
| 2 qualifying children | $6,960 | $3,480 (50%) | $3,132.00 (45%) (eitc.irs.gov, marylandcomptroller.gov) |
| 1 qualifying child | $4,213 | $2,106.50 (50%) | $1,895.85 (45%) (eitc.irs.gov, marylandcomptroller.gov) |
| No qualifying child | $632 | $632 (100%) | Worksheet may allow a refundable portion if EITC > MD tax. (eitc.irs.gov, marylandcomptroller.gov) |
Note: Your actual Maryland refundable amount depends on your Maryland tax. Use the state worksheet or the Comptroller’s EITC Assistant. (interactive2.marylandtaxes.gov)
County/local piece you don’t see: Maryland also has a local (county) EITC that reduces your local tax automatically when you file; some counties have refundable local EITC provisions by law. You don’t file anything separate—your Maryland return handles it. (codes.findlaw.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If the software didn’t apply the Maryland EITC correctly, re‑check you picked the right filing status and listed each child on Form 502B. If you filed with an ITIN and claimed EITC, make sure you didn’t try to use IRS Direct File for 2024 (Maryland recommends other methods for ITIN+EITC). If you’re stuck, call the Comptroller at 410‑260‑7980 or 1‑800‑638‑2937. (marylandtaxes.gov, marylandtaxes.gov)
Maryland Child Tax Credit (state CTC)
- Who qualifies: Maryland residents with Federal AGI (FAGI) ≤ 15,000∗∗andeither(1)adependentunderage6,or(2)adependentunder17withadisability.Amountis∗∗15,000** and either (1) a dependent under age 6, or (2) a dependent under 17 with a disability. Amount is **500 per child and it’s refundable. Claim on Form 502CR. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- Where to read it fast: The Comptroller’s EarnedIt page summarizes the state CTC and basic rules. (marylandtaxes.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re slightly above $15,000 FAGI, you won’t qualify for the state CTC. Focus on the Maryland EITC and the Child & Dependent Care Credit below.
Maryland Child and Dependent Care Credit (state CDCC)
- If you qualified for the federal CDCC (Form 2441), Maryland gives you a state credit starting at 32% of your federal credit. Claim on Form 502CR Part B. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- Refundable for lower‑income filers: If your FAGI is ≤ 59,400∗∗(individual/HOH/etc.)or∗∗≤59,400** (individual/HOH/etc.) or **≤ 89,100 (MFJ), any leftover state CDCC after you reduce your tax can be refunded (enter in Part CC). Above those incomes, the MD CDCC is nonrefundable and phases down by bracket. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
Example: If your federal CDCC is 600∗∗,aMarylandresidentcouldgetupto∗∗600**, a Maryland resident could get up to **192 (32% of 600).IfyourMarylandtaxislowandyourFAGIisundertherefundabilitythreshold,that∗∗600). If your Maryland tax is low and your FAGI is under the refundability threshold, that **192** can be refunded. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your software didn’t ask for Form 2441 info, you may lose both the federal and MD credits. Re‑enter childcare provider info (name, address, SSN/EIN, amount) and re‑run the return or ask a VITA site to check. (irs.gov)
Don’t miss this if you live in Montgomery County
Montgomery County pays a separate Working Families Income Supplement (WFIS) that generally equals 56% of your Maryland refundable EITC. You don’t apply separately; the County processes it after the state. Checks are typically mailed in batches (end of July, end of October, end of January) based on when you filed. (montgomerycountymd.gov, montgomerycountymd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you think you qualified but didn’t get a check when expected, confirm your address on your Maryland return was correct and contact the County (see the County “Cashback” page) after confirming your state EITC posted. (montgomerycountymd.gov)
Filing options in Maryland (fastest first)
- • Free, in‑person IRS‑certified help:
- IRS VITA appointments: call 1‑800‑906‑9887 or use the IRS locator page to find a site. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- AARP Tax‑Aide (all ages, focus on 50+): 1‑888‑227‑7669 or use the AARP site locator. (aarp.org)
- Baltimore area: CASH Campaign of Maryland coordinates free filing. 211 Maryland lists CASH and partners and shows the 410‑234‑8008 appointment line. (211md.org)
- • Online filing:
- IRS Direct File (simple return types). Note: For Tax Year 2024, the Comptroller warns ITIN filers planning to claim the MD EITC to use another filing method to maximize benefits. (marylandtaxes.gov)
- Keep your confirmation pages and bank info for tracking and direct deposit.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied at a free site because your return is out‑of‑scope, ask for a referral to another VITA/TCE site or consider a nonprofit LITC if you have an IRS dispute. Use the IRS LITC map to find local clinics. (irs.gov)
Application Checklist (bring these to your appointment or have handy if filing online)
- • Government‑issued photo ID for you (and spouse if filing jointly). (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- • Social Security cards or ITIN letters for you, your children, and anyone else on the return. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- • Proof your child lived with you more than half the year (school or medical records, lease, etc.). (irs.gov)
- • All income documents (W‑2, 1099‑NEC/MISC/K, 1099‑G for unemployment or state refund, 1099‑R, SSA‑1099). (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- • Childcare provider info (name, address, SSN/EIN) and amounts paid (for CDCC). (irs.gov)
- • Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit (voided check helps you avoid typos). (marylandtaxes.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (and how to prevent them)
- • Missing or incorrect SSNs/ITINs for you or your child (federal EITC requires SSNs; Maryland state EITC allows ITIN, but check rules). Have cards/letters with you. (irs.gov, marylandtaxes.gov)
- • Not adding every qualifying child on Form 502B (Maryland) or Schedule EIC (federal). If a child is left off, you lose thousands. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- • Filing with Direct File when you’re an ITIN filer claiming Maryland EITC—Maryland advises using another method for 2024 to maximize benefits. (marylandtaxes.gov)
- • Expecting refunds before mid‑February if you claimed EITC/ACTC—by law the IRS must hold them. Plan bill payments accordingly. (irs.gov)
- • Skipping the Maryland CDCC because you “did the federal one.” Maryland’s credit is separate; claim it on 502CR and check if you’re under the refundability threshold. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
Real‑world examples (using official amounts)
- • Head of Household, two kids, earned income around the federal EITC “plateau”: You could receive close to the max federal EITC (6,960∗∗),plusMarylandnonrefundableEITC(∗∗6,960**), plus Maryland nonrefundable EITC (**3,480) and potentially a Maryland refundable EITC up to $3,132 before subtracting your state tax. If you have child care expenses and qualify for the federal CDCC, add the Maryland CDCC too. (eitc.irs.gov, marylandcomptroller.gov)
- • Single (no kids), modest wages: If you qualify for the federal EITC (max $632), Maryland’s state EITC lets you claim 100% of that against your Maryland tax, and some of it can be refundable via the worksheet if your EITC is higher than your state tax. (eitc.irs.gov, marylandcomptroller.gov)
- • Montgomery County mom, one child, eligible for state refundable EITC of 1,800∗∗:TheCountyWFIS(about∗∗561,800**: The County WFIS (about **56%**) could add roughly **1,008 after state processing. (montgomerycountymd.gov)
Reality check: exact amounts depend on income, filing status, children’s ages/SSNs, and your Maryland tax. Use the IRS Assistant and the Maryland EITC Assistant to get precise figures for your situation. (irs.gov, interactive2.marylandtaxes.gov)
Timelines and tracking
| What | Typical timing | Where to track |
|---|---|---|
| Federal refund with EITC/ACTC | Held until mid‑February; most direct deposits arrive by the first week of March if no issues | Use IRS “Where’s My Refund” and IRS2Go (updates once daily) (irs.gov) |
| Maryland refund | E‑file: processed same day; direct deposit within days after processing. Paper: about 30 days | Maryland Refund Status online or call 410‑260‑7701 / 1‑800‑218‑8160 (marylandtaxes.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: For federal delays or hardship, the Taxpayer Advocate Service can help. For Maryland delays, contact Taxpayer Services or the Ombudsman. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, marylandtaxes.gov)
Diverse Communities: practical notes and resources
- • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Filing status is about who lived with you and provided support, not marital gender. Head of Household often applies if your child lived with you over half the year and you paid over half the household costs—this unlocks larger standard deduction and credits. Ask VITA to confirm status and EITC rules using IRS tools. (irs.gov)
- • Single mothers with disabilities or with a child who has a disability: Maryland’s state CTC gives 500∗∗foreachdependentunder17withaqualifieddisabilitywhenFAGIis∗∗≤500** for each dependent under 17 with a qualified disability when FAGI is **≤ 15,000. Keep medical certifications with your records for 502CR. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- • Veteran single mothers / military spouses: You can choose to include nontaxable combat pay for EITC if it helps. Check both ways at a VITA site. (irs.gov)
- • Immigrant/refugee single moms: Federal EITC requires SSNs for you, spouse (if MFJ), and each child. Maryland EITC can be claimed with an ITIN (state only). If you’re ITIN and claiming MD EITC for 2024, avoid IRS Direct File and use another method as advised by the Comptroller. (irs.gov, marylandtaxes.gov, marylandtaxes.gov)
- • Tribal citizens: If you worked for wages or self‑employment income, those earnings can count for EITC like any other earned income. Use the IRS Assistant to confirm. (irs.gov)
- • Rural single moms with limited access: Call 211 to get matched to the closest VITA site or to virtual filing support in your area. (211md.org)
- • Single fathers raising kids: The same credit rules apply—qualifying child rules and income limits are identical.
- • Language access: IRS EITC tools and many Maryland pages offer Spanish and other language options; VITA and 211 can connect you with bilingual assistance. (211md.org)
Resources by region (statewide options that route you locally)
- • IRS VITA Locator and hotline 1‑800‑906‑9887 (free filing help; many sites across MD). (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- • AARP Tax‑Aide Locator and hotline 1‑888‑227‑7669 (all ages welcome, focus on 50+). (aarp.org)
- • 211 Maryland—search “tax services” or dial 211 to get matched to free help near you (CASH Campaign partners statewide). (211md.org)
- • CASH Campaign of Maryland (Baltimore region): phone 410‑234‑8008 (appointment line), plus partner sites across MD listed via 211. (211md.org)
- • Comptroller of Maryland branch offices and appointments (for state tax questions): see “Our Locations” and call 1‑800‑MD‑TAXES (1‑800‑638‑2937) or 410‑260‑7980. (marylandtaxes.gov)
10 Maryland‑specific FAQs
- • Can I get the Maryland EITC if I file with an ITIN?
Yes. Maryland allows ITIN filers to claim the state EITC (federal still requires SSNs). (marylandtaxes.gov) - • What are the 2024 federal EITC income limits and maximums?
Up to 66,819∗∗MFJwith3+kids;maxcredits:∗∗66,819** MFJ with 3+ kids; max credits: **7,830 (3+), 6,960∗∗(2),∗∗6,960** (2), **4,213 (1), $632 (no kids). (eitc.irs.gov) - • How does the Maryland EITC calculate for families with kids?
Nonrefundable part = 50% of federal EITC; refundable part = 45% of federal EITC minus your Maryland tax. Claim on Form 502. (marylandcomptroller.gov) - • I have no qualifying child—do I still get a Maryland EITC?
Yes. The nonrefundable Maryland EITC equals 100% of your federal EITC, and you may get a refundable portion via the state worksheet if your EITC is more than your Maryland tax. (marylandcomptroller.gov) - • What is the Maryland Child Tax Credit right now?
Refundable 500∗∗pereligiblechildifFAGI≤∗∗500** per eligible child if FAGI ≤ **15,000 and your dependent is under 6 or under 17 with a disability. Claim on 502CR. (marylandcomptroller.gov) - • What about child care expenses?
If you claimed the federal CDCC, Maryland lets you claim a state CDCC starting at 32% of your federal credit and it’s refundable at lower incomes (FAGI ≤ 59,400∗∗single/HOH;≤∗∗59,400** single/HOH; ≤ **89,100 MFJ). (marylandcomptroller.gov) - • When will my refund hit my account?
Federal EITC/ACTC refunds are held until mid‑February; most deposit the first week of March if no issues. Maryland e‑filed refunds usually arrive within days of processing; paper takes about 30 days. (irs.gov, marylandtaxes.gov) - • I live in Montgomery County—do I get anything extra?
Yes. The County’s WFIS is generally 56% of your Maryland refundable EITC. Paid automatically after the state processes. (montgomerycountymd.gov) - • Where do I get free help to file and avoid mistakes?
Call VITA 1‑800‑906‑9887, AARP 1‑888‑227‑7669, or dial 211 to find the closest free site. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, aarp.org, 211md.org) - • My Maryland issue isn’t getting resolved. Who can escalate it?
Comptroller’s Ombudsman: 410‑260‑6222 (email ombudsman@marylandtaxes.gov). (marylandtaxes.gov)
Extra tips and reality checks
- • If your refund is smaller than expected, Maryland lists common reasons (offsets for child support or other debts, direct deposit errors). Check the Refund page and call if needed. (marylandtaxes.gov)
- • If an IRS or Maryland letter questions your EITC/CTC, don’t ignore it. Call the number on the letter and get help from an LITC if money is tight. The LITC map shows Maryland clinics and languages served. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- • Keep proof your child lived with you (school, medical, housing records). This is a frequent audit issue for EITC. (irs.gov)
Tables you can skim fast
1) Federal EITC (Tax Year 2024)
| Qualifying children | Income limit (single/HOH) | Income limit (MFJ) | Max credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $18,591 | $25,511 | $632 |
| 1 | $49,084 | $56,004 | $4,213 |
| 2 | $55,768 | $62,688 | $6,960 |
| 3+ | $59,899 | $66,819 | $7,830 |
| Source: IRS EITC income limits and ranges. (eitc.irs.gov) |
2) Maryland EITC summary (Tax Year 2024)
| Situation | State nonrefundable EITC | State refundable EITC |
|---|---|---|
| With ≥1 qualifying child OR married (joint/separate) | 50% of federal EITC | 45% of federal EITC minus Maryland state tax |
| No qualifying child (single/HOH/QSS) | 100% of federal EITC | Refundable portion per state worksheet if EITC > MD tax |
| Source: 2024 Maryland Resident Booklet instructions. (marylandcomptroller.gov) |
3) Maryland Child Tax Credit (state CTC)
| Requirement | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FAGI ≤ $15,000, dependent under 6 OR dependent under 17 with a disability; MD resident | $500 per child | Refundable; claim on Form 502CR; keep physician certification for disability. (marylandcomptroller.gov) |
4) Maryland Child & Dependent Care Credit (state CDCC)
| If you claimed federal CDCC | Maryland credit | Refundable thresholds |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Form 2441 filed | Starts at 32% of federal CDCC (phases down at higher incomes) | Refundable if FAGI ≤ 59,400∗∗(individual/HOH/etc.)or≤∗∗59,400** (individual/HOH/etc.) or ≤ **89,100 (MFJ) |
| Source: 502CR instructions (2024). (marylandcomptroller.gov) |
5) Refund timing cheat sheet
| Return type | Earliest you’ll realistically see money | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Federal return with EITC/ACTC | First week of March (most filers) | PATH Act holds refunds until mid‑Feb; allow bank processing time. (irs.gov) |
| Maryland e‑file + direct deposit | Within days after processing | State processes many e‑files same day; watch for verification issues. (marylandtaxes.gov) |
| Maryland paper return | About 30 days to process | Slower due to manual processing. (marylandtaxes.gov) |
What to do if any of this doesn’t work (Plan B options)
- • Can’t get an appointment? Dial 211 for more free sites, or ask about virtual VITA. (211md.org)
- • Return rejected, you’re overwhelmed, or you got a scary letter? Call an LITC (see map) for free/low‑cost representation. (irs.gov)
- • State‑specific roadblock? Call the Comptroller 410‑260‑7980 / 1‑800‑638‑2937 or the Ombudsman 410‑260‑6222. (marylandtaxes.gov)
- • Need to stretch the refund? Ask VITA/AARP to set up direct deposit; check that routing/account numbers are correct to avoid delays. (marylandtaxes.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Maryland 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, eligibility rules, and timelines change. Always verify details on the official pages linked throughout this guide before you apply or rely on a dollar figure.
- • Security reminder: Never email full SSNs, bank numbers, or private documents unless the agency instructs you to use their secure system. Use official phone numbers and websites listed here to avoid scams.
- • This guide is information, not legal or tax advice. For personalized advice, use an IRS‑certified VITA/TCE preparer, contact the Comptroller’s Office, or consult a qualified professional.
Sources (verified and dated)
- IRS EITC limits and amounts for 2024; refund timing messages; PATH Act hold and timing; general qualification rules; Publication 596 and Pub. 503 details. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- Taxpayer Advocate (IRS) 2025 EITC amounts; filing season resources. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Maryland 2024 Resident Booklet (Form 502 instructions): detailed Maryland EITC percentages, refundable rules, and worksheets. (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- Maryland Form 502CR instructions: state CTC (500∗∗atFAGI∗∗≤500** at FAGI **≤ 15,000), and state CDCC (32% start and refundability thresholds). (marylandcomptroller.gov)
- Comptroller “EarnedIt” page; Direct File advisory for ITIN + EITC. (marylandtaxes.gov, marylandtaxes.gov)
- Montgomery County: Working Families Income Supplement (56%) and payment schedule. (montgomerycountymd.gov, montgomerycountymd.gov)
- Maryland refund status page (processing timelines and phone lines); Comptroller Taxpayer Services/Ombudsman contacts. (marylandtaxes.gov)
- 211 Maryland tax services page (CASH Campaign contact 410‑234‑8008 and statewide resources). (211md.org)
- IRS VITA/TCE program and phone numbers; AARP Tax‑Aide site and hotline 1‑888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, aarp.org)
If you spot anything that looks outdated or unclear, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and fix it quickly.
🏛️More Maryland Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maryland
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- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
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- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
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- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
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- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
