EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Nebraska
Nebraska EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff Guide (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, numbers‑first guide for single mothers in Nebraska who need real answers fast. Every dollar amount, deadline, and phone number is bolded for quick scanning. Links go straight to official sources.
Quick Help Box
- Need free, safe help filing? Call IRS VITA at 800‑906‑9887 or use the VITA/TCE site locator (IRS) to book a free appointment. Statewide help is coordinated by the Tax Credit Alliance of Nebraska (TCAN). (tcan.unl.edu)
- Expecting an EITC/ACTC refund? By law, the IRS holds these until mid‑February. If you e‑file and choose direct deposit with no issues, most early filers see money by about March 3. Track in Where’s My Refund? (IRS). (irs.gov)
- Nebraska EITC is automatic if you get the federal EITC: it’s a refundable 10% “piggy‑back” on your federal amount, claimed on your Nebraska Form 1040N. If your federal EITC is 3,000∗∗,yourNebraskaEITCadds∗∗3,000**, your Nebraska EITC adds **300. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Paying for childcare? Nebraska’s new Child Care Refundable Tax Credit pays 2,000perchild∗∗ifhouseholdincome≤∗∗2,000 per child** if household income ≤ **75,000, or 1,000perchild∗∗ifhouseholdincomeis∗∗1,000 per child** if household income is **75,001–150,000∗∗.YoumustapplyfirstinDOR’seDASHtoreservefunds;there’sa∗∗150,000**. You must apply first in DOR’s eDASH to reserve funds; there’s a **15 million yearly cap and it can fill fast. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Filing deadline for 2024 returns (filed in 2025) was April 15, 2025. For the new 2025 tax year (filed in 2026), the Nebraska individual deadline is expected around April 15, 2026 (check the [Nebraska Tax Calendar] for exact dates each year). Extensions give you extra time to file, not to pay. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (2024 vs. 2025 key numbers)
| Credit | 2024 tax year (filed 2025) | 2025 tax year (filed 2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC – max with 3+ kids | $7,830 | $8,046 | Investment income limit: 11,600∗∗(2024)and∗∗11,600** (2024) and **11,950 (2025). (irs.gov) |
| Federal EITC – max with 2 kids | $6,960 | $7,152 | (irs.gov) |
| Federal EITC – max with 1 kid | $4,213 | $4,328 | (irs.gov) |
| Federal EITC – max with 0 kids | $632 | $649 | Ages 25–64 if no kids. (irs.gov) |
| Nebraska EITC | 10% of your federal EITC | 10% of your federal EITC | Fully refundable; claimed on Form 1040N. (revenue.nebraska.gov) |
| Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) | Up to 2,000/child∗∗;refundableupto∗∗2,000/child**; refundable up to **1,700 | Up to 2,000/child∗∗(perIRSinflationbulletin);refundableupto∗∗2,000/child** (per IRS inflation bulletin); refundable up to **1,700 | Child must have SSN. Use Schedule 8812. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) |
| Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCTC) | 20%–35% of up to 3,000∗∗(onechild)or∗∗3,000** (one child) or **6,000 (two+), nonrefundable | Same | File Form 2441. (irs.gov) |
| Nebraska CDCTC | 25% of federal (nonrefundable) if AGI > 29,000∗∗;refundablescaled29,000**; refundable scaled % if AGI ≤ **29,000 | Same | See Nebraska Reg‑22‑019. (revenue.nebraska.gov) |
| Nebraska Child Care Refundable Tax Credit (Parents) | 2,000∗∗perchild≤5ifincome≤∗∗2,000** per child ≤5 if income ≤ **75,000; **1,000∗∗perchildif∗∗1,000** per child if **75,001–150,000∗∗;150,000**; 15M cap | Same | Must apply in eDASH before claiming. (revenue.nebraska.gov) |
Note: All dollar amounts and dates above are from official IRS and Nebraska Department of Revenue sources current through August/September 2025. Always check the linked source before filing, especially if Congress or the Legislature acts late in the year.
Start Here: Claim the Federal EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Most single moms should screen for EITC first—it’s one of the biggest refundable credits for working families.
What to do first
- Use the IRS’s free tool: EITC Qualification Assistant to confirm eligibility and estimate your amount for your tax year. (irs.gov)
2024 and 2025 EITC amounts and limits
- For 2024 returns (filed in 2025), max EITC is: 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (no kids). Income limits vary by family size (for example, head of household with 3+ kids must be under 59,899∗∗AGI).Investmentincomemustbe∗∗59,899** AGI). Investment income must be **11,600 or less. See full table at IRS. (irs.gov)
- For 2025 returns (filed in 2026), max EITC is: 8,046∗∗(3+kids),∗∗8,046** (3+ kids), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (no kids). Investment income limit is $11,950. See the IRS inflation bulletin (Internal Revenue Bulletin 2024‑45). (irs.gov)
Who qualifies (quick check)
- You (and your child if claiming EITC with children) must have valid SSNs; you must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien all year; cannot file Form 2555; and investment income must be at/below the annual limit. If you claim EITC with no children, you must be 25–64. See IRS Publication 596 for all rules. (irs.gov)
How to claim
- File Form 1040/1040‑SR and complete the EITC section; most software does this automatically when you enter dependents and income. If you’re not required to file, file anyway to get the refund. Use Free File or VITA if you need help. (irs.gov)
Refund timing reality check
- The IRS can’t issue any refund that includes EITC (or the Additional CTC) before mid‑February (PATH Act). If you e‑file and choose direct deposit with no issues, the IRS says many early filers get money by about March 3; Where’s My Refund updates by February 22 for most early filers. (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Claiming a child who didn’t live with you in the U.S. more than half the year.
- Using the wrong filing status (Head of Household is often right if you paid over half the cost of keeping up a home for a qualifying child).
- Missing the investment‑income cap.
- Filing too early with missing W‑2/1099 forms; mismatches delay refunds. (irs.gov)
Real‑world example (federal)
- You’re a Nebraska mom with two kids, 28,500∗∗inearnedincome(2024).TheIRStableshowsalikelyEITCinthe∗∗28,500** in earned income (2024). The IRS table shows a likely EITC in the **3,000–4,000∗∗range(exactamountdependsonyourfinalAGI).IfyourfederalEITCis∗∗4,000** range (exact amount depends on your final AGI). If your federal EITC is **3,800, Nebraska will add another $380 (10%). (irs.gov, revenue.nebraska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Get free, in‑person help. Call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) or see the TCAN site map for free sites statewide. If the IRS flags your return, watch for letters and respond by the deadline in bold on the notice (keep copies). (tcan.unl.edu)
Nebraska EITC (State) – 10% of your federal EITC
Nebraska’s EITC is simple: if you qualify for federal EITC, you get a refundable 10% of that amount on your Nebraska return.
Action steps
- When you prepare your Nebraska Form 1040N, the state EITC line calculates as 10% of your federal EITC (partial‑year residents use a ratio). You’ll see fields that pull in your federal EITC amount and multiply by 0.10. (revenue.nebraska.gov, nebraskalegalforms.com)
Nebraska EITC: example and quick table
- If your federal EITC is 3,800∗∗(twokids),Nebraskaadds∗∗3,800** (two kids), Nebraska adds **380.
| Federal EITC (2024) | Nebraska add‑on (10%) | Federal EITC (2025) | Nebraska add‑on (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $7,830 (3+ kids) | $783 | $8,046 (3+ kids) | $804.60 |
| $6,960 (2 kids) | $696 | $7,152 (2 kids) | $715.20 |
| $4,213 (1 kid) | $421.30 | $4,328 (1 kid) | $432.80 |
| $632 (no kids) | $63.20 | $649 (no kids) | $64.90 |
Sources: IRS EITC tables and Nebraska Reg‑22‑019.21. (irs.gov, revenue.nebraska.gov)
Need state help?
- Nebraska DOR taxpayer assistance: 800‑742‑7474 (NE & IA) or 402‑471‑5729. Offices in Lincoln and Omaha are open weekdays; see addresses/hours on the DOR page. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If software didn’t pull the Nebraska EITC correctly, check that your federal EITC is entered and that dependents transferred. If you’re stuck, call DOR at 800‑742‑7474 or 402‑471‑5729 to confirm what to enter on Form 1040N, or get free in‑person help at a VITA site. (revenue.nebraska.gov, tcan.unl.edu)
Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional CTC (refund)
This is separate from EITC and can stack with it.
Key facts for 2024 and 2025
- Maximum CTC remains up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchildunder∗∗17∗∗;upto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child under **17**; up to **1,700 per child may be refundable as the Additional CTC (ACTC) for both 2024 and 2025 per IRS guidance. Phaseouts generally start at 200,000∗∗MAGI(single/HOH)and∗∗200,000** MAGI (single/HOH) and **400,000 (MFJ). Children must have an SSN valid for employment issued by the return due date. File Schedule 8812. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
Reality checks
- The IRS cannot issue refunds that include the ACTC before mid‑February (you’ll often see updated dates by February 22 and deposits around early March if you e‑file and pick direct deposit with no issues). (irs.gov)
What to do first
- Make sure every child’s SSN and your filing status are correct in your return software. The IRS will reduce or disallow the credit if SSN data is wrong or late. Use the IRS CTC key messages for a quick rule summary. (eitc.irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re denied because a child lacks an SSN, you may still be eligible for the Credit for Other Dependents ($500, nonrefundable). See the IRS page for details. (eitc.irs.gov)
Federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (daycare, after‑school, summer day camp)
If you pay for care so you can work or look for work, check this credit.
The essentials
- For 2024 and 2025, you can claim 20%–35% of up to 3,000∗∗ineligibleexpensesforonechildorupto∗∗3,000** in eligible expenses for one child or up to **6,000 for two or more children. The rate slides down as income rises; at $43,000+ AGI most families get 20%. It’s nonrefundable. File IRS Form 2441. (irs.gov)
Examples that count
- Licensed daycare, preschool below kindergarten level, before/after‑school care, and day camps (not overnight). You must have the provider’s name, address, and TIN/SSN. (irs.gov)
Nebraska boost (state CDCTC)
- Nebraska allows a 25% nonrefundable credit based on your federal CDCTC if your AGI is over 29,000∗∗.IfyourAGIis∗∗29,000**. If your AGI is **29,000 or less, Nebraska offers a refundable version that phases down from 100% of the federal amount as income rises from 22,000–22,000–29,000. See Reg‑22‑019.11 for details. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Paying cash with no receipt or missing provider TIN.
- Claiming kindergarten tuition (not eligible), or overnight camp.
- Forgetting to coordinate with a Dependent Care FSA (benefits reduce expenses you can use for the credit). (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you’re over income for a big federal credit, the Nebraska refundable CDCTC can still help if your AGI is $29,000 or less. Also check the Nebraska Child Care Refundable Tax Credit (next section). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Nebraska Child Care Refundable Tax Credit (Parents & Guardians, age 5 and under)
This is new and powerful for Nebraska families with little ones.
Act now (how to apply)
- Apply online in DOR’s eDASH using Form 7203 to reserve your credit, then claim it on your Nebraska return. You must apply and be approved before filing your state return. The annual pool is $15 million and is processed first‑come, first‑served. Allow at least 10 business days for a response. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Who qualifies and how much
- You must be a Nebraska resident, claim the child on your federal return, and the child must be age ≤5 on December 31 of the tax year. Amounts:
- 2,000perchild∗∗iftotalhouseholdincome≤∗∗2,000 per child** if total household income ≤ **75,000.
- 1,000perchild∗∗iftotalhouseholdincome∗∗1,000 per child** if total household income **75,001–$150,000.
- Not eligible if total household income > $150,000.
- At least one of these also must be true: the child attended a DHHS‑licensed program, an approved license‑exempt provider enrolled in the Child Care Subsidy program, a public‑school‑operated program exempt from licensing, or your household income is ≤ 100% FPL (in that last case you don’t need a licensed provider). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Required documents (have these before you apply)
- Child’s legal name, DOB, and SSN/ITIN; your SSN (and spouse’s if MFJ); number of Nebraska personal exemptions (from 1040N line 4); household income estimate/worksheet; the DHHS license number or DHHS authorization if using an approved license‑exempt provider. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Processing timeline
- DOR processes applications in order received. The portal usually opens in late January; sign up for DOR email alerts so you don’t miss it. Yearly cap is $15 million—apply early. Response time: about 10 business days; keep your approval letter with the certification number for your return. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Reality check and pitfalls
- If your final return data (income, dependents) doesn’t match the application, DOR can reduce or disallow the reserved amount. Make sure your provider details (license number) are correct. Funds can run out—don’t wait until March. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If funds run out, still claim the federal CDCTC and Nebraska CDCTC (if you qualify). If you need help or have a problem with a denied reservation, call DOR at 800‑742‑7474 or 402‑471‑5729. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Other Nebraska Credits Many Single Moms Miss
These aren’t “mom‑specific,” but can make a real difference.
Property Tax Credits (refundable, via Form PTC)
- Nebraska’s Property Tax Credit program lets you claim refundable credits for community college property taxes paid after December 31, 2021 (and some prior school district taxes before January 1, 2024 via amended returns). Use the official Look‑Up Tool and file Form PTC/PTCX with your income tax return. Check current rules (LB 34 changed how school tax relief is delivered starting 2024). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Homestead Exemption (property tax relief)
- If you’re 65+, disabled, or a qualified disabled veteran/surviving spouse, your home may be partially exempt from property tax. Apply with your county assessor each year between February 2 and June 30. State helpline: 888‑475‑5101. Forms and income tables here: Nebraska Homestead Exemption. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
School Readiness Tax Credits (for childcare workers and providers)
- If you work in licensed early childhood programs, Nebraska’s refundable staff credit ranges from about 2,373–2,373–3,611 (2025 levels) depending on your professional level; providers can receive nonrefundable credits per subsidy‑enrolled child and program quality step. Apply in eDASH; total annual cap shared with provider credits is $7.5 million. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Caregiver Tax Credit (new, 2025)
- Nonrefundable credit for family caregivers with AGI under 50,000∗∗(single)or∗∗50,000** (single) or **100,000 (MFJ) who pay out‑of‑pocket costs to care for an eligible family member needing help with activities of daily living. Applications began February 2025; annual program cap applies. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Filing, Deadlines, and Refund Timing (Nebraska + Federal)
- Nebraska’s Individual Income Tax deadline aligns with federal. For the 2024 tax year (filed in 2025), the due date was April 15, 2025. Check the [Nebraska Tax Calendar] each year for exact due dates and special farmer/rancher dates. Extensions: if the IRS grants you a federal extension, Nebraska’s is automatic to file, but interest accrues on tax due after the original due date. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Track Nebraska refunds at the DOR “Check Refund Status” page; allow at least 30 days for a clean e‑filed return and up to 3 months for paper. DOR assistance: 800‑742‑7474 or 402‑471‑5729. (ndr-refundstatus.ne.gov, revenue.nebraska.gov)
Tables You Can Use
A) Federal EITC amounts and income caps (selected highlights)
| Tax Year | Max EITC (3+ kids) | Max EITC (2) | Max EITC (1) | Max EITC (0) | Investment income limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $7,830 | $6,960 | $4,213 | $632 | $11,600 |
| 2025 | $8,046 | $7,152 | $4,328 | $649 | $11,950 |
Source: IRS EITC tables and 2025 inflation adjustments. (irs.gov)
B) Nebraska EITC add‑on (10% of federal, illustrative)
| Federal EITC | Nebraska add‑on (10%) |
|---|---|
| $2,500 | $250 |
| $4,000 | $400 |
| $7,830 | $783 (2024 max with 3+ kids) |
| $8,046 | $804.60 (2025 max with 3+ kids) |
Source: Neb. Reg‑22‑019.21 and IRS EITC tables. (revenue.nebraska.gov, irs.gov)
C) Nebraska Child Care Refundable Tax Credit (Parents)
| Household Income | Per‑Child Credit | Age Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ $75,000 | $2,000 | Child ≤ 5 on Dec 31 |
| 75,001–75,001–150,000 | $1,000 | Same |
| > $150,000 | $0 | — |
Must apply in eDASH first. Annual statewide cap $15M; allow ~10 business days for DOR response. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
D) Child and Dependent Care Credit (Federal + Nebraska add‑on)
| Credit | Max Expenses Counted | % Range | Max Federal Credit | Nebraska Add‑On |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal CDCTC | 3,000∗∗(1)/∗∗3,000** (1) / **6,000 (2+) | 35% → 20% | Up to 1,050∗∗(1)/∗∗1,050** (1) / **2,100 (2+) | — |
| Nebraska CDCTC | Uses federal result | — | — | 25% of federal (nonrefundable) if AGI > 29,000∗∗;refundablephasedamountifAGI≤∗∗29,000**; refundable phased amount if AGI ≤ **29,000 |
Sources: IRS Pub 503 and Nebraska Reg‑22‑019. (irs.gov, revenue.nebraska.gov)
E) Refund timing if your return includes EITC/ACTC (PATH Act)
| If you… | Then… |
|---|---|
| E‑file early, choose direct deposit, and no return issues | IRS expects most EITC/ACTC filers to see deposits by about early March (often around March 3). Where’s My Refund updates for early filers by Feb 22. |
| Paper file or have ID/verification issues | Add weeks; track daily updates in [Where’s My Refund?] |
Source: IRS refund timing page updated Aug 26, 2025. (irs.gov)
Step‑by‑Step: Document & Application Checklist
Have this ready before you file or apply.
- Photo ID; SSNs/ITINs for you and kids; prior‑year return if handy.
- W‑2s, 1099‑NEC, 1099‑MISC, 1099‑G (unemployment), SSA‑1099, daycare receipts with provider TIN, and any Form 2441 details.
- Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
- If applying for Nebraska’s Child Care Refundable Tax Credit: DHHS license number for your provider or DHHS authorization if license‑exempt, child info, household income estimate, and your Nebraska personal exemptions count (1040N line 4). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
Free, Trustworthy Help in Nebraska (statewide and local)
- State Taxpayer Assistance (Nebraska DOR): 800‑742‑7474 or 402‑471‑5729. Offices in Lincoln, Omaha, Norfolk, North Platte, and Scottsbluff; hours listed on DOR’s contact page. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- VITA/TCE (IRS‑certified volunteers): Call 800‑906‑9887 or use the IRS VITA Locator. TCAN hosts sites statewide; see the TCAN map and site list. (tcan.unl.edu)
- United Way 211 Nebraska (free tax prep appointment links for Omaha/Lincoln/other areas): dial 211 or see the Nebraska 211 tax prep page. (ne211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If sites are full, try AARP Tax‑Aide (not just for seniors). Use their locator or call 888‑227‑7669. Or e‑file yourself with IRS Free File if your AGI qualifies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing too early without all forms (W‑2/1099). One missing form can trigger a refund delay.
- Choosing the wrong filing status; many single moms qualify for Head of Household.
- Entering a child’s SSN incorrectly; for CTC, the child must have a valid SSN.
- Mixing up childcare credit rules (overnight camps and kindergarten tuition don’t qualify).
- Not applying early for Nebraska’s Child Care Refundable Tax Credit—funds can run out. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov, revenue.nebraska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your refund is delayed, check [Where’s My Refund?] daily (updates overnight), and watch your mail for any IRS or DOR letters. Respond by the bolded deadline on the notice. (irs.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tips and Resources
Because families are not one‑size‑fits‑all, here’s what changes—or doesn’t—by situation.
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- CTC/EITC rules hinge on relationship, residency, and support tests—not on orientation. If you’re co‑parenting without marriage, only the parent who meets the residency/support rules should claim the child to avoid duplicate claims and delays. Use VITA for nuanced cases.
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child
- EITC includes special rules for disability benefits; some disability payments can count as earned income for EITC if received before minimum retirement age. Keep records that your child meets the IRS disability definition if claimed as permanently and totally disabled. (irs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers
- Check Homestead Exemption special categories for disabled veterans/survivors (property tax relief). Apply with your county assessor by June 30. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- For EITC, you must have a valid SSN (ITIN filers are not eligible for EITC). For the federal CTC, the child must have an SSN; the parent may file with an ITIN and still claim the nonrefundable CTC/ODC if the child has SSN or the rules fit. Nebraska’s Child Care Refundable Tax Credit application accepts SSN/ITIN entries for the parent; read the FAQs and match your documentation carefully. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov, revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Tribal citizens (Omaha, Winnebago, Santee Sioux, Ponca)
- Federal EITC/CTC rules apply the same. If you had income earned entirely on reservation land under certain circumstances, talk to VITA/Tribal tax outreach or DOR about how state rules interact with reservation income. Nebraska regulations note special rules for Native American income earned on reservation land. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access
- Use mail‑in VITA options if available, library internet, or United Way MyFreeTaxes (for eligible incomes). TCAN lists sites outside Omaha/Lincoln each season. (unitedway.org, tcan.unl.edu)
- Single fathers
- Same rules apply. The qualifying child must live with the claimant more than half the year for EITC, and support tests apply for CTC.
- Language access
- IRS has multilingual EITC and refund pages; many Nebraska VITA sites can arrange interpreters. Check site notes when you book.
10 Nebraska‑Specific FAQs
- What’s the Nebraska EITC percentage?
It’s 10% of your federal EITC, refundable. You don’t apply separately—your Nebraska return calculates it. (revenue.nebraska.gov) - When will I actually get my EITC refund?
The IRS can’t send EITC/ACTC refunds before mid‑February. Many early e‑filers with direct deposit see money by about March 3. Nebraska refunds take at least 30 days for e‑filers if error‑free. (irs.gov, ndr-refundstatus.ne.gov) - How much is Nebraska’s Child Care Refundable Tax Credit?
Per child age ≤5: 2,000∗∗ifincome≤∗∗2,000** if income ≤ **75,000; 1,000∗∗ifincome∗∗1,000** if income **75,001–150,000∗∗;∗∗150,000**; **0 above that. Must apply first; $15M annual cap. (revenue.nebraska.gov) - What counts for the federal Child & Dependent Care Credit?
Licensed care, preschool (below kindergarten), before/after‑school programs, and day camps (not overnight). Up to 3,000∗∗expensesforonechild,∗∗3,000** expenses for one child, **6,000 for two+. Credit rate 35% down to 20% as income rises. (irs.gov) - Can I use both Nebraska’s childcare refundable credit and the federal CDCTC?
Yes, they’re separate programs. Nebraska’s refundable credit requires a pre‑approval application; the federal CDCTC is claimed on your return with Form 2441. (revenue.nebraska.gov, irs.gov) - I’m over the income limit for Nebraska’s childcare refundable credit. Anything else?
You may still get the federal CDCTC and the Nebraska CDCTC (state add‑on). Also check employer Dependent Care FSAs. (revenue.nebraska.gov) - I own a home—is there any Nebraska relief?
Yes: Property Tax Credit via Form PTC, and Homestead Exemption if you’re 65+, disabled, or a qualified disabled veteran/survivor (apply by June 30 with your county assessor). (revenue.nebraska.gov) - Where do I get Nebraska tax help by phone?
Nebraska DOR assistance: 800‑742‑7474 or 402‑471‑5729 (weekday hours vary by office). (revenue.nebraska.gov) - I claimed the wrong child/filer combination and got a letter. What now?
Read the letter, gather proof of residency (school/daycare/medical records with addresses), and respond by the bolded deadline. VITA can help you reply. (irs.gov) - I was told to “wait for March” for my refund. Is that real?
Yes. Due to the PATH Act, even if you file in January, EITC/ACTC refunds aren’t paid until mid‑February or early March. The IRS posts personalized dates in [Where’s My Refund?]. (irs.gov)
Resources by Region (fast links)
- Statewide: Nebraska DOR assistance 800‑742‑7474 / 402‑471‑5729; Contact page with office addresses/hours. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Omaha Metro: Omaha EITC Coalition via United Way 211; book through the Nebraska 211 tax prep page. (ne211.org)
- Lincoln: TCAN/Lincoln VITA sites (libraries, SCC, UNL). Schedules and booking: TCAN site list. (tcan.unl.edu)
- Other Cities (Grand Island, North Platte, Kearney, Norfolk, etc.): Find VITA/TCE via 800‑906‑9887 or the 211 page above. (ne211.org)
What to Do If You Run Into a Roadblock (Plan B options)
- Can’t get a quick VITA appointment? Try a different site on the TCAN map or ask about drop‑off/virtual prep. For urgent filings, use IRS Free File and Nebraska’s e‑file (NebFile) if available.
- Need to talk to a human about your Nebraska return? Call 800‑742‑7474 or 402‑471‑5729 and ask for Taxpayer Assistance. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Refund missing? Check both [IRS Where’s My Refund?] and the [Nebraska refund status tool], and verify bank info and return acceptance dates. If the IRS sent an identity‑verification letter, follow its instructions exactly and by the printed deadline. (irs.gov, ndr-refundstatus.ne.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Nebraska 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 rules, dollar amounts, and deadlines can change. Always verify with the IRS, the Nebraska Department of Revenue, your county assessor (for Homestead Exemptions), or your childcare program before applying. We link directly to official pages for this reason.
- Security note: For your privacy and to keep our website secure, do not email Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, or other sensitive personal data. Use only secure government portals (IRS/DOR) for applications and identity verification.
Sources (selected)
- Federal EITC 2024 amounts; IRS EITC tables (page last reviewed July 8, 2025). (irs.gov)
- Federal EITC 2025 inflation adjustments; Internal Revenue Bulletin 2024‑45 (EITC and ACTC refundable cap). (irs.gov)
- EITC refund timing (PATH Act hold to mid‑February; March 3 estimate; updated Aug. 26, 2025). (irs.gov)
- Nebraska EITC = 10% of federal, refundable (Reg‑22‑019.21). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Nebraska Child Care Refundable Tax Credit (parents): eligibility, amounts (2,000/2,000/1,000), annual $15M cap, eDASH application, 10‑day processing. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Federal CDCTC rules and limits (Publication 503). (irs.gov)
- Nebraska CDCTC refundable/nonrefundable structure (Reg‑22‑019). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Nebraska DOR Contact (offices, phone 800‑742‑7474 / 402‑471‑5729). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Nebraska Tax Calendar (individual due dates including April 15, 2025). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Nebraska refund status tool processing times. (ndr-refundstatus.ne.gov)
- Homestead Exemption: program page, forms, helpline 888‑475‑5101, annual filing window through June 30. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- Property Tax Credit (Form PTC/PTCX) guidance and LB 34 changes. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- School Readiness Tax Credits (staff/provider amounts; $7.5M cap). (revenue.nebraska.gov)
- VITA statewide (TCAN map), IRS VITA phone 800‑906‑9887, and Nebraska 211 tax prep page. (tcan.unl.edu, ne211.org)
If any link looks broken or you see a number that doesn’t match what you were told by an agency, please email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update within 48–72 hours.
🏛️More Nebraska Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Nebraska
- 📋 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
