EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Massachusetts
Massachusetts EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑BS, Get‑It‑Done Guide (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, step‑by‑step hub written for single moms in Massachusetts who need real numbers, clear rules, and fast next steps. You’ll find exact 2024–2025 amounts, income limits, who qualifies, how to apply, what to expect, and what to do if something goes wrong. All figures and rules below come straight from the IRS or Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR), and every fact is sourced with an official link you can click to verify.
(eitc.irs.gov, mass.gov, irs.gov)
Quick Help Box
- If you worked in 2024, check your eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). For 2024 (filed in 2025), the federal EITC max is up to $7,830 with three kids; Massachusetts adds 40% of your federal EITC on top. File a federal and state return to get both. (eitc.irs.gov, mass.gov)
- For 2025 (filed in 2026), the federal EITC max rises to $8,046 (three or more kids). Massachusetts still pays 40% of your federal amount. (irs.gov)
- Massachusetts’ Child and Family Tax Credit (CFTC) pays $440 per eligible person (no cap) for 2024 and after. It covers each child under 13, a spouse/dependent with a disability, and dependents 65+. Married filing separately is not eligible. (mass.gov)
- Don’t have an SSN/ITIN for your dependent? You can still get the Massachusetts CFTC by requesting a Massachusetts Alternative Taxpayer ID (MATIN) for that dependent. Follow the paper‑filing steps on the DOR page. (mass.gov)
- 2024 returns are due in Massachusetts by April 15, 2025. If you need more time to file, request an extension by April 15—but pay any tax due by then to avoid interest. State refunds typically take 4–6 weeks (e‑file + direct deposit). (mass.gov)
- If you claim EITC or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), the IRS cannot issue your federal refund before mid‑February. Most early filers see money around the first week of March if there are no issues. Track with “Where’s My Refund?” (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
- Free in‑person tax help (VITA/TCE) and multilingual assistance are available near you. Call the IRS VITA line 800‑906‑9887 or AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669. In Boston, email FreeTaxHelp@boston.gov or see the Boston Tax Help Coalition schedule. (irs.gov, states.aarp.org, boston.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Credit/Benefit | Key For Single Moms | 2024 Amounts (filed 2025) | 2025 Amounts (filed 2026) | How to Claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC | Based on earned income and kids; requires SSNs for you and each qualifying child | Max up to $7,830 (3+ kids); income limits vary (see table below) | Max up to $8,046 (3+ kids) | File Form 1040 + Schedule EIC; e‑file for speed. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) |
| Massachusetts EITC | Equals 40% of your federal EITC | Up to 40% of your federal amount | Up to 40% of your federal amount | Claim automatically on MA Form 1 (DOR uses your federal figure). (mass.gov) |
| Massachusetts Child & Family Tax Credit (CFTC) | $440 per: each child <13; dependent/spouse with disability; dependent 65+; no cap; MFS not eligible | $440 per eligible person | $440 per eligible person | MA Form 1 Line 46 (residents). MATIN available for dependents without SSN/ITIN (paper file). (mass.gov) |
| Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) + ACTC | Up to 2,000perchild<17;refundableupto2,000 per child <17; refundable up to 1,700 (ACTC) if you qualify; SSN required for child | CTC 2,000;ACTCrefundupto2,000; ACTC refund up to 1,700 | CTC 2,000;ACTCrefundupto2,000; ACTC refund up to 1,700 | Form 1040 + Schedule 8812; e‑file. (irs.gov) |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit (federal) | For work‑related care costs (daycare, after‑school, day camp) | Up to 35% of 3,000(onechild)or3,000 (one child) or 6,000 (2+); non‑refundable | Same structure (unless Congress changes) | Form 2441 with your 1040. (irs.gov) |
| MA Rent Deduction | Deduct 50% of rent paid, max $4,000 | $4,000 cap | $4,000 cap | Report on MA Form 1; keep lease/receipts. (mass.gov) |
Note: Links to official rule pages are provided throughout the guide for verification and deeper details.
What to Do First (30‑Minute Action Plan)
- Confirm your filing status (most single moms qualify for Head of Household if you paid more than half the cost of keeping up your home and have a qualifying child). This usually lowers tax and expands credits. (irs.gov)
- Gather all documents (photo ID, SSNs, W‑2s/1099s, childcare provider EIN/SSN, bank info for direct deposit, Form 1095‑A if you used the Marketplace). Use the IRS checklist if you’re heading to a free tax site. (irs.gov)
- Check your EITC eligibility and possible amount using the IRS EITC limits page and DOR’s MA EITC page. (eitc.irs.gov, mass.gov)
- Decide where to file: Free VITA/TCE help (see below), IRS Direct File/free e‑file options, or a trusted preparer. Filing electronically with direct deposit is the fastest path to your refund. (mass.gov)
- Put important deadlines in your phone: Massachusetts and federal due date April 15, 2025 (extensions to October 15, 2025 for filing, but you must pay any tax due by April 15). (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re stuck on eligibility or paperwork, call the DOR Contact Center at 617‑887‑6367 or 800‑392‑6089 (in MA), 9 a.m.–4 p.m. weekdays; or schedule free help at a VITA site via 800‑906‑9887. (mass.gov, irs.gov)
Federal EITC: Exact 2024 Numbers (Filed in 2025)
The EITC is based on your earned income, filing status, and number of kids. For tax year 2024 (returns due April 2025), these are the limits and maximums:
| Qualifying Children | Income must be less than (Single/HOH) | Max Federal EITC |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $18,591 | $632 |
| 1 | $49,084 | $4,213 |
| 2 | $55,768 | $6,960 |
| 3 or more | $59,899 | $7,830 |
Investment income must be $11,600 or less for 2024. You and each child used for EITC must have a valid SSN. (eitc.irs.gov)
How to claim (2024):
- File Form 1040 and attach Schedule EIC if you have qualifying children. E‑file for the quickest turnaround. (irs.gov)
Reality check:
- If you claim EITC, the IRS cannot issue your refund before mid‑February by law (PATH Act). For most early, accurate e‑filers, refunds hit accounts by the first week of March. Track status in “Where’s My Refund?” (updates usually start in late February). (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If IRS computes or adjusts your federal EITC later, you can amend your MA return to match. MA allows amended returns and explains time limits for changes. (mass.gov)
Federal EITC: Exact 2025 Numbers (Filed in 2026)
For tax year 2025, the IRS has announced the inflation‑adjusted EITC amounts:
| Qualifying Children | Max Federal EITC | Single/HOH phaseout begins | Single/HOH completed phaseout |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $649 | $10,620 | $19,104 |
| 1 | $4,328 | $23,350 | $50,434 |
| 2 | $7,152 | $23,350 | $57,310 |
| 3+ | $8,046 | $23,350 | $61,555 |
Married‑filing‑joint phaseout thresholds are higher; see the full IRS table at the link below. Investment‑income limit for 2025 is $11,950. (irs.gov, taxnotes.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re confused by the 2025 numbers, bring your last pay stub and W‑2s to a VITA site. Certified volunteers will calculate the credit for free. Call 800‑906‑9887. (irs.gov)
Massachusetts EITC (State EITC): 40% of Your Federal Amount
Massachusetts pays an Earned Income Tax Credit equal to 40% of your federal EITC. You must file a Massachusetts return to get it. Nonresidents for the full year are not eligible; part‑year residents prorate by days living in MA. (mass.gov)
- 2024 example (state EITC):
- 1 child, you get the federal max 4,213∗∗→MAEITCis∗∗4,213** → MA EITC is **1,685 (40%). (mass.gov)
- 2025 example (state EITC, based on IRS table):
- 3+ kids, federal max 8,046∗∗→MAEITC≈∗∗8,046** → MA EITC ≈ **3,218 (40%). DOR computes from your federal amount. (irs.gov)
Special filing rules:
- MA allows EITC for some married‑filing‑separate taxpayers only if you meet separation or domestic abuse exceptions. See DOR’s rule and the domestic abuse exception in state law. (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov)
How to claim:
- Enter your federal EITC on your MA return (Form 1). DOR matches it and applies the 40% rate automatically. Part‑year residents use Form 1‑NR/PY and prorate. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the IRS is still computing your federal EITC at the MA deadline, DOR explains your extension options and how to amend later. Call 617‑887‑6367 or 800‑392‑6089 for help. (mass.gov)
Massachusetts Child and Family Tax Credit (CFTC): $440 Per Person (No Cap)
What it is:
- A refundable MA credit of $440 for each eligible individual in your household: each child under 13, a spouse or dependent who can’t care for themselves due to disability, and any dependent 65+. There is no limit to the number you can claim. Married filing separately does not qualify. (mass.gov)
Key advantages for many single moms:
- Works even if you owe no tax (refundable).
- It’s not tied to your out‑of‑pocket childcare costs (unlike the federal dependent care credit).
- You can claim it even if the dependent does not have an SSN/ITIN by requesting a Massachusetts Alternative Taxpayer Identification Number (MATIN) for that person (paper filing required; see how below). (mass.gov)
How to claim:
- Residents: enter the number of eligible individuals on MA Form 1 Line 46a, multiply by $440, and enter on Line 46. Part‑year residents use Form 1‑NR/PY Line 50 with the proration factor. (mass.gov)
How to request a MATIN (if your dependent lacks SSN/ITIN):
- Paper‑file your MA return with “REQUEST ALTERNATIVE ID” written at the top; include a letter explaining the qualifying individual and 2 acceptable ID documents from DOR’s list; mail to: Department of Revenue, Revenue Refund Unit, PO Box 7026, Boston, MA 02204‑7026. DOR will assign a MATIN and process your credit. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If DOR asks for more info, respond by the deadline. If you need help, call DOR at 617‑887‑6367 or connect with a free Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic (see “Plan B help” below). (mass.gov)
Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
- For 2024 and 2025, the CTC is up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchildunder17.Therefundablepart(ACTC)isupto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child under 17. The refundable part (ACTC) is up to **1,700 per child if you qualify (earned income rules apply). Children used for CTC must have an SSN that’s valid for employment issued by the return due date; if they don’t, you may be able to claim the nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents instead. (irs.gov)
- Phase‑outs: The credit starts to phase out at 200,000∗∗modifiedAGIforHeadofHousehold(andSingle),or∗∗200,000** modified AGI for Head of Household (and Single), or **400,000 for Married Filing Jointly. (cnbc.com)
How to claim:
- File Form 1040 and attach Schedule 8812. If you claim ACTC, the IRS must hold your refund until mid‑February; most early filers see it the first week of March. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your child lacks an SSN, consider whether they qualify for MA’s CFTC with a MATIN while you work on getting an SSN/ITIN. See the MATIN steps above and W‑7 guidance to obtain an ITIN for you (not for the child for CTC). (mass.gov, irs.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credit (Federal)
- If you pay for care so you can work or look for work (daycare, after‑school, day camp), you can claim up to 35% of up to 3,000∗∗ofexpensesforonechildor∗∗3,000** of expenses for one child or **6,000 for two or more. The percentage slides down as income rises (to 20% for many households). File Form 2441. This credit is nonrefundable. (irs.gov)
Massachusetts note:
- MA replaced its old dependent care credits with the CFTC in 2023. There’s no separate MA dependent care credit now; use the MA CFTC and the federal care credit if you qualify. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your child‑care provider for their EIN/SSN and address—you need it for Form 2441. If you can’t get it, read the IRS instructions for exceptions and document your good‑faith effort. (irs.gov)
Other MA Tax Breaks Many Single Moms Use
- Rent deduction: Deduct 50% of rent paid for your principal MA residence, up to 4,000∗∗.Ifmarriedfilingseparately,eachspousegenerallymaxesat∗∗4,000**. If married filing separately, each spouse generally maxes at **2,000 (can reallocate with a signed statement). Keep receipts/lease. (mass.gov)
- Filing deadlines, extensions, and refunds: MA returns (Form 1) are due April 15, 2025; extensions move the filing date to October 15, 2025 but do not extend time to pay. MA refunds: e‑filed returns with direct deposit usually arrive in 4–6 weeks; paper can take 8–10. (mass.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use MassTaxConnect to check “Where’s My Refund?” or message DOR securely, or call 617‑887‑6367 / 800‑392‑6089 (in MA). (mass.gov)
Real‑World Examples (Massachusetts, 2024 filing)
- Example A: One child, Boston, wage income $28,000
- Federal EITC (approx): about $2,900 (varies with exact earnings).
- MA EITC (40%): about $1,160.
- MA CFTC: $440 (child under 13).
- If eligible, CTC could add up to 2,000∗∗(refundabilitydependsonincome).Totalcombinedcreditscaneasilytop∗∗2,000** (refundability depends on income). Total combined credits can easily top **6,000, depending on details. Verify with the IRS EITC tables and DOR pages before you file. (eitc.irs.gov, mass.gov)
- Example B: Two kids, Worcester, wage income $43,000
- Federal EITC (approx): around mid‑range up to $6,960 max.
- MA EITC: up to $2,784 (40% of federal).
- MA CFTC: $880 (two kids under 13).
- Federal CTC: up to $4,000 total if eligible.
Your actual refund depends on withholding, other credits, and any state taxes owed. (eitc.irs.gov, mass.gov)
Timelines You Can Expect
| Step | Federal | Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|
| Filing opens | Late January | Late January |
| EITC/ACTC refunds | Held until mid‑February; most early e‑filers see funds about first week of March (no guarantees) | Typical e‑file refund 4–6 weeks (add a week for paper checks) |
| Regular refunds (no EITC/ACTC) | Most e‑filed returns in about 21 days | Same as above |
| Due date for 2024 returns | Federal: April 15, 2025 | State: April 15, 2025 |
| Extension deadline | October 15, 2025 (file) | October 15, 2025 (file) |
Sources: IRS refund timing for EITC/ACTC, DOR refund timeline, MA filing season overview. (irs.gov, mass.gov)
Free, Trusted Filing Help (Massachusetts)
- IRS VITA/TCE: Call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) or 888‑227‑7669 (AARP) or use the IRS locator. Many sites offer help in Spanish and other languages. (irs.gov)
- Boston Tax Help Coalition: Free tax prep for eligible residents; updated site list and year‑round options posted by the City of Boston. Email FreeTaxHelp@boston.gov; see current site schedule. (boston.gov)
- Worcester & Central MA: Worcester Community Action Council and the Worcester Free Tax Service Coalition coordinate free prep (income limits apply). Phone 508‑754‑1176 and additional site contacts listed on coalition page. (wcac.net)
- Springfield / Hampden County: Springfield Partners for Community Action VITA; appointments at 413‑263‑6500 (press “2”). (springfieldpartnersinc.com)
- Lowell / Merrimack Valley: Community Teamwork VITA (online intake via GetYourRefund). (commteam.org)
- Greater New Bedford: PACE VITA, appointments 508‑999‑9920. (paceinfo.org)
- Fall River / Taunton: Citizens for Citizens VITA, Fall River office 508‑679‑0041 ext. 739 (vita@cfcinc.org). (cfcinc.org)
- Cape Cod: IRS‑certified student VITA clinic at Cape Cod Community College, 774‑330‑4923 (vita@capecod.edu). (capecod.edu)
- DOR Contact Center (refunds, filing, notices): 617‑887‑6367 or 800‑392‑6089 (in MA), 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Mon–Fri. Request in‑person/virtual appointments at district offices if needed. (mass.gov)
Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips and Resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Filing status and dependent rules are the same; if you’re co‑parenting without marriage, make sure only one taxpayer claims each child. Free legal clinics (LITCs) can help if the IRS questions custody/support claims. Use the IRS LITC map to find clinics (multilingual help available). (irs.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising a child with disabilities
- Veteran single mothers
- Your VA benefits aren’t earned income for EITC. If a preparer tries to include them to “boost” your EITC, that’s a red flag. Use VITA or an LITC if you need help. (irs.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- Tribal citizens
- Tax rules for EITC and CTC are the same. Keep all W‑2/1099s and any treaty‑related forms if applicable. LITCs can assist if there’s an IRS dispute. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access
- Single fathers and other caregivers
- Rules are based on who the child lived with and who supported them, not gender. Review Head of Household criteria and keep school/medical records showing residency. (irs.gov)
- Language access
Application Checklist (Bring This to Your Tax Appointment)
- Government‑issued photo ID(s)
- Social Security cards (or ITIN letters) for you and everyone on the return
- Birth dates for everyone on the return
- All W‑2s and 1099s; SSA‑1099; 1099‑G; 1099‑R; any other income statements
- Childcare provider name, address, and SSN/EIN; daycare payments total
- Form 1095‑A (Marketplace) or 1099‑HC (MA health coverage) if applicable
- Bank routing/account number for direct deposit (voided check helps)
- Last year’s federal and state returns (if you have them)
- Any IRS/DOR letters you received
Use the IRS “Checklist for Free Tax Return Preparation” for a complete list. (irs.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing with the wrong filing status (missed Head of Household) and losing credits.
- Claiming a child who didn’t live with you more than half the year (EITC disallowance risk). Keep school/medical letters with your address.
- Missing the MA Schedule HC requirement (health coverage) on resident returns—this often delays refunds.
- Typos in SSNs, routing numbers, or birthdates.
- Forgetting to include childcare provider’s SSN/EIN on Form 2441.
- Filing too early with missing W‑2 or 1095‑A (IRS will delay or adjust your return).
- Expecting your EITC/ACTC refund before mid‑February—by law, the IRS can’t release it. (irs.gov)
FAQs (Massachusetts‑Specific)
- Can I get the MA EITC if I file Married Filing Separately?
Yes, but only under specific exceptions (you lived apart the last 6 months and have a qualifying child; or you’re a documented domestic‑abuse survivor). See DOR’s MFS rules. (mass.gov) - My child doesn’t have an SSN yet. Can I still get help?
For federal CTC/EITC, an SSN is required for the child (EITC requires SSNs for you and the child). For MA CFTC, you can request a MATIN for the dependent and still receive $440 per qualifying person. (irs.gov, mass.gov) - When will I get my refund if I claim EITC/ACTC?
By law, not before mid‑February; most early e‑filers with direct deposit see funds around the first week of March if there are no issues. (irs.gov) - Do tax refunds or EITC affect my SNAP, TANF, or housing benefits?
Federal law says tax refunds (including EITC) don’t count as income and are excluded as a resource for 12 months for federally funded programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and TANF. Check with your local agency after 12 months if you still have funds saved. (acf.hhs.gov) - Is there a Massachusetts child‑care credit?
No. The state replaced older dependent/household credits with the Child and Family Tax Credit ($440 per person) for 2024 onward. You can still claim the federal child and dependent care credit if eligible. (mass.gov) - I moved to MA mid‑year. Can I still get the state EITC?
Part‑year residents can claim MA EITC proportional to days lived in MA (multiply federal EITC × 40% × residency ratio). Use Form 1‑NR/PY. (mass.gov) - I didn’t file last year. Can I still claim EITC?
You have 3 years from the original due date to file and claim a refund, including EITC. For example, tax year 2022 can be claimed until April 15, 2026. (irs.gov) - Where can I track my MA refund?
Use MassTaxConnect’s “Where’s My Refund?” or call 617‑887‑6367 / 800‑392‑6089. Typical e‑file timeline is 4–6 weeks for direct deposit. (mass.gov) - How do I adjust my paycheck so I’m not waiting for a big refund?
Update your federal Form W‑4 and Massachusetts Form M‑4 with your employer. MA’s M‑4 is on DOR’s site. (mass.gov) - Who do I call if I get an IRS or DOR letter I don’t understand?
Call DOR at 617‑887‑6367 or the IRS at 800‑829‑1040, or contact a Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic (free/low‑cost representation) such as GBLS LITC (800‑323‑3205) or AACA LITC (617‑426‑9492 ext. 285). (mass.gov, aaca-boston.org)
Where To Find Local Help Beyond Taxes (Fast)
- Mass 211 (24/7 statewide): Dial 2‑1‑1 (or 877‑211‑6277) for help locating benefits, food, housing, utilities support, and more. (mass211.org)
- Catholic Charities Boston (basic needs, multiple locations): Numbers vary by site; examples include Dorchester 617‑506‑6600, Brockton 508‑587‑0815, Lynn 781‑593‑2312. (ccab.org)
- Salvation Army Massachusetts: Main line 339‑502‑5900; local service units may assist with rent, utilities, and emergency needs. (massachusetts.salvationarmy.org, easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
Step‑by‑Step Filing: Federal + State (Fast Track)
- E‑file both returns with direct deposit for fastest refunds. If eligible, try IRS Direct File or other free e‑file options listed by DOR. (mass.gov)
- Massachusetts requires you to include Schedule HC (health coverage) with resident returns—forgetting this delays refunds. (mass.gov)
- Keep copies of your return and all W‑2/1099s, daycare receipts, and proof your child lived with you (school or medical records). This helps if the IRS or DOR asks for verification later. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a preparer denies you credits you believe you qualify for, get a second opinion at a VITA site or call an LITC. If your refund stalls, check status online first, then call IRS or DOR. (irs.gov, mass.gov)
Gaps We Fixed vs. Typical Top 10 Google Results
Common pages ranking for “Massachusetts EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers” often miss or gloss over:
- 2025 EITC amounts and phaseouts, and how they affect MA EITC (we included official 2025 IRS tables and the MA 40% rate). (irs.gov)
- The Massachusetts Child & Family Tax Credit’s MATIN option if a dependent lacks SSN/ITIN (we provide steps and mailing address). (mass.gov)
- Domestic‑abuse and separated‑spouse rules for EITC when filing MFS (we linked to the DOR rule and the law). (mass.gov, budget.digital.mass.gov)
- State‑specific timelines, refund holds, and exact DOR phone numbers and office options. (irs.gov, mass.gov)
- A single, scannable hub with exact dollar amounts, plan‑B options, and regional free help sites with phone numbers (we listed them and cited the official pages). (boston.gov, springfieldpartnersinc.com, paceinfo.org, wcac.net)
Quick Reference Tables
1) Federal EITC (2024) and Matching MA EITC Max (40% of Federal)
| Kids | Federal EITC Max (2024) | MA EITC Max (40%) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $632 | $253 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $1,685 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $2,784 |
| 3+ | $7,830 | $3,132 |
Source: IRS and DOR tables. (eitc.irs.gov, mass.gov)
2) Federal EITC (2025) and Approx. MA EITC Max (40% of Federal)
| Kids | Federal EITC Max (2025) | Approx. MA EITC Max (40%) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $649 | ≈ $260 |
| 1 | $4,328 | ≈ $1,731 |
| 2 | $7,152 | ≈ $2,861 |
| 3+ | $8,046 | ≈ $3,218 |
Source: IRS IRB with 2025 inflation adjustments; MA rate is 40% of federal. (irs.gov, mass.gov)
3) CTC vs. MA CFTC (What You Can Claim Together)
| Credit | Who It’s For | Amount | Refundable? | ID Rules |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) | Child under 17 | Up to $2,000 per child | Partially (ACTC up to $1,700 per child) | Child must have SSN valid for work by the return due date |
| MA Child & Family Tax Credit (CFTC) | Child <13; spouse/dependent with disability; dependent 65+ | $440 per person; no cap | Yes (fully refundable) | Dependents can use SSN/ITIN or MATIN (by paper request) |
Sources: IRS Schedule 8812 instructions; DOR CFTC page. (irs.gov, mass.gov)
4) Refund Timing Snapshot
| Situation | Federal Refund Timing | MA Refund Timing |
|---|---|---|
| EITC/ACTC claimed | Not before mid‑February; most early e‑filers see first week of March | E‑file + direct deposit: 4–6 weeks |
| No EITC/ACTC | Most e‑files within ~21 days | Same 4–6 weeks (e‑file), 8–10 weeks (paper) |
Sources: IRS refund timing; DOR refund timeline. (irs.gov, mass.gov)
5) Free Help by Region (Selected)
| Region | Organization | How to Reach |
|---|---|---|
| Boston | Boston Tax Help Coalition | FreeTaxHelp@boston.gov; see site schedule on Boston.gov |
| Worcester/Central MA | Worcester Community Action Council; Worcester Free Tax Service Coalition | 508‑754‑1176; coalition site list |
| Springfield/Hampden | Springfield Partners for Community Action VITA | 413‑263‑6500 (press “2”) |
| Lowell/Merrimack Valley | Community Teamwork VITA | Online intake via GetYourRefund |
| New Bedford | PACE VITA | 508‑999‑9920 |
| Fall River/Taunton | Citizens for Citizens VITA | 508‑679‑0041 ext. 739 |
Sources: official program pages linked above. (boston.gov, wcac.net, springfieldpartnersinc.com, commteam.org, paceinfo.org, cfcinc.org)
If You Need a “Plan B” Advocate
- Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITC): Free/low‑cost legal help for IRS/DOR disputes, audits, or identity verification issues. In Greater Boston, try GBLS (800‑323‑3205) or AACA (617‑426‑9492 ext. 285). Use the IRS LITC map to find others statewide. (mass.gov, aaca-boston.org, irs.gov)
Quick Filing Tips That Save Time
- Use direct deposit. Double‑check routing and account numbers.
- Keep daycare receipts and provider EIN/SSN ready.
- Include Schedule HC with MA returns.
- Respond quickly to any IRS or DOR letter—missing a deadline can freeze your refund.
- If your situation changed (new baby, divorce, job change), update your W‑4 and M‑4 with your employer so your 2025 paychecks and 2026 refund are on target. (mass.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Massachusetts Department of Revenue, IRS/US Department of Treasury, 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.
Our methodology follows primary‑source verification (IRS, Mass.gov), cross‑checks, link testing, and change tracking. We quote eligibility rules from official materials and link to calculators or official tables instead of guessing fixed benefit amounts. We monitor policy changes and reader feedback to keep this page accurate. (mass.gov)
Disclaimer
- Program rules, amounts, income limits, deadlines, and application processes can change. Always verify with the IRS and the Massachusetts Department of Revenue before applying or relying on any figure in this guide. We link to the official pages throughout so you can check the latest details.
- Security reminder: never email your SSN, bank details, or private documents to anyone who isn’t verified. Use MassTaxConnect secure messaging for DOR questions and only trusted portals for e‑filing. Keep your devices updated and use strong passwords. (mass.gov)
Sources (selected, official)
- IRS EITC limits (2024) and press materials; EITC fast facts; EITC/ACTC refund timing; 2025 inflation adjustments (IRB); Schedule 8812 instructions. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- Massachusetts EITC overview and 40% rate; part‑year rules; domestic‑abuse exception; filing and due dates; refund timelines; contact numbers. (mass.gov)
- MA Child & Family Tax Credit details; MATIN process and mailing address. (mass.gov)
- Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit (Publication 503). (irs.gov)
- Rent deduction (MA DOR and TIR 24‑4 on increased cap). (mass.gov)
- VITA/TCE program info and Massachusetts site contacts (City of Boston; regional VITA partners). (irs.gov, boston.gov)
- LITC map and clinic contacts in MA. (irs.gov, mass.gov)
- Tax refunds and benefits interaction (12‑month exclusion). (acf.hhs.gov)
If you spot a broken link or an outdated figure, please email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it fast.
🏛️More Massachusetts Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Massachusetts
- 📋 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
