EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in New Hampshire
New Hampshire EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, numbers‑first guide for single moms in New Hampshire. It covers the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, Child and Dependent Care Credit, education credits, the Saver’s Credit, Marketplace health insurance Premium Tax Credit, and New Hampshire’s Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief. Every dollar amount and deadline below links to an official source. When a program doesn’t exist in NH (like a state EITC), we say that plainly and give a Plan B.
Quick Help Box
- If you have wages or self‑employment income and a child, check your EITC in minutes with the IRS EITC Assistant, then file to claim it. Use the IRS EITC Assistant. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Most EITC/ACTC refunds are legally held until late February; many hit bank accounts by about early March if you e‑file and choose direct deposit. Track yours at Where’s My Refund?. (irs.gov)
- New Hampshire has no wage income tax and no state EITC. Don’t waste time looking for a state EITC. (revenue.nh.gov)
- Own your home? You may get NH Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief (income limits 37,000single∗∗;∗∗37,000 single**; **47,000 head of NH household/married). Apply May 1–June 30 on Granite Tax Connect or ask questions at (603) 230‑5920. NH DRA property tax relief info. (revenue.nh.gov)
- Free, in‑person tax filing help: call 211 or the IRS VITA line 800‑906‑9887 (AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669). IRS free tax prep | NH 211. (irs.gov, 211nh.org)
What we checked (and what others miss)
We reviewed the first‑page results you’d find when searching “New Hampshire EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers,” plus the official IRS and NH pages. Common gaps in the top results:
- They don’t say plainly that NH has no state EITC (and send moms on a wild goose chase). We do. (revenue.nh.gov)
- They skip 2025 inflation updates (EITC, standard deductions, and refund timing). We include both 2024 (filed in 2025) and 2025 (filed in 2026) figures with citations. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- They ignore the NH Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief program and the short application window. We include exact income limits, the filing window, processing time, and the NH phone number. (revenue.nh.gov)
- They don’t give direct phones for help. We list verified numbers for NH DRA, HealthCare.gov, and free tax prep. (revenue.nh.gov, healthcare.gov, irs.gov)
Filing status and the standard deduction (quick win before credits)
Most single moms qualify as Head of Household (HOH) if you paid more than half the cost of keeping up your home and your child lived with you over half the year. For 2024 returns (filed in 2025), HOH standard deduction is 21,900∗∗;for2025returns,it’s∗∗21,900**; for 2025 returns, it’s **22,500. This reduces your taxable income before credits. See the IRS rules and amounts below. (irs.gov)
- HOH rules (who qualifies): IRS Publication 504. (irs.gov)
- 2024 standard deduction: 21,900HOH∗∗;∗∗21,900 HOH**; **14,600 single; $29,200 MFJ. IRS inflation adjustments for 2024. (irs.gov)
- 2025 standard deduction: 22,500HOH∗∗;∗∗22,500 HOH**; **15,000 single/MFS; $30,000 MFJ. IRS IRB 2024‑45. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re not sure you qualify for HOH, ask a VITA site or read the HOH section in Pub 504. NH moms can dial 211 for an appointment list. (irs.gov, 211nh.org)
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): biggest refund boost for working single moms
Most important action first: use the IRS EITC Assistant. If you qualify, file and claim it—many moms leave hundreds or thousands on the table. IRS EITC Assistant. (eitc.irs.gov)
How much you can get (2024 vs. 2025)
- 2024 (returns filed in 2025): max EITC up to 7,830∗∗with3+children;incomeandAGIlimitsvarybyfilingstatusandnumberofkids;investmentincomemustbe∗∗7,830** with 3+ children; income and AGI limits vary by filing status and number of kids; investment income must be **11,600 or less. IRS EITC limits 2024. (eitc.irs.gov)
- 2025 (returns filed in 2026): max EITC up to 8,046∗∗with3+children;investmentincomelimit∗∗8,046** with 3+ children; investment income limit **11,950. See the official 2025 table (earned income amounts, phaseout thresholds, and completed phaseout). [IRS IRB 2024‑45, Rev. Proc. 2024‑40] (irs.gov)
EITC quick table for single/HOH filers
| Tax year | Qualifying children | Max credit | Completed phaseout (no credit) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 0 | $632 | $19,104 | Investment income ≤ $11,600. |
| 2024 | 1 | $4,213 | $50,434 | |
| 2024 | 2 | $6,960 | $57,310 | |
| 2024 | 3+ | $7,830 | $61,555 | |
| 2025 | 0 | $649 | $19,104 | Investment income ≤ $11,950. |
| 2025 | 1 | $4,328 | $50,434 | |
| 2025 | 2 | $7,152 | $57,310 | |
| 2025 | 3+ | $8,046 | $61,555 |
Sources: IRS EITC 2024 limits; IRS IRB 2024‑45 for 2025 amounts. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
Who qualifies (single mom edition)
- You, your child, and (if applicable) your spouse on a joint return must have valid Social Security numbers issued by the due date of the return; child must meet relationship/age/residency tests. IRS EITC basics + qualifying child rules. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- If divorced/separated, the custodial parent can claim EITC even if the other parent claims the child as a dependent via Form 8332 for Child Tax Credit. Keep school/childcare records to prove your child lived with you > half the year. IRS Pub 596. (irs.gov)
How to apply
- File a federal return. If you claim a qualifying child, complete Schedule EIC. Free help: VITA 800‑906‑9887 or AARP 888‑227‑7669; or use IRS Free File if you qualify. (irs.gov)
Timelines and reality check
- By law (PATH Act), refunds with EITC/ACTC can’t be issued before mid‑February. The IRS expects most early filers to see EITC/ACTC refunds by about early March if e‑filed with direct deposit and no issues. Track status at Where’s My Refund?. (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Claiming a child who did not live with you > half the year. Keep school/daycare letters showing your address.
- Forgetting the SSN requirement for you and your child.
- Investment income over the limit (11,600∗∗for2024;∗∗11,600** for 2024; **11,950 for 2025) disqualifies EITC. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If EITC is denied or reduced, read the IRS notice carefully and consider free help at VITA/TCE or the Taxpayer Advocate Service page on claiming EITC. (irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
Most important action first: if your child is under 17 and has a valid SSN, run the numbers on Schedule 8812 when you file.
- For 2024 returns (filed in 2025): CTC is up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchild;upto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child; up to **1,700 per child may be refundable as the ACTC if you have enough earned income. See the 2024 Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
- The child must have an SSN valid for employment issued by the return due date. Parents may file with SSN or ITIN. See IRS FAQs and 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
CTC quick table
| Tax year | Max CTC per child | Max refundable ACTC | Income phase‑out begins |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $2,000 | $1,700 | 200,000∗∗Single/HOH;∗∗200,000** Single/HOH; **400,000 MFJ |
Source: 2024 Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
How to apply
- File Form 1040 + Schedule 8812. The IRS must hold refunds on returns that properly claim ACTC until at least mid‑February. (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Claiming CTC for a child without an SSN valid for employment.
- Missing income thresholds; if income is too low, ACTC is limited by the 15% formula over $2,500 of earned income. See Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your child lacks an SSN by the due date, ask about the nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents ($500 per dependent) or claim CTC in a future year once the SSN is issued; see Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credit (childcare costs)
If you pay for care so you can work or look for work (kids under 13, or a spouse/dependent who can’t self‑care), you may claim a nonrefundable credit of 20%–35% of up to 3,000∗∗incarecostsforonechildor∗∗3,000** in care costs for one child or **6,000 for two or more. The rate is 35% at lower incomes and phases down to 20% at higher incomes. Use Form 2441. (irs.gov)
CDCTC essentials table
| Item | Amount/Rule |
|---|---|
| Max expenses counted | 3,000∗∗(1child);∗∗3,000** (1 child); **6,000 (2+ children) |
| Credit rate | 20%–35% depending on AGI |
| How to claim | Form 2441; list provider info (name, address, TIN). |
Source: IRS Publication 503 (2024). (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Paying cash with no receipts or missing provider SSN/EIN—then you can’t complete Form 2441.
- Counting kindergarten or private school tuition (not allowed), while forgetting that before/after‑school care and day camp often qualify. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your employer about a Dependent Care FSA (often pre‑tax up to $5,000); if you have DCFSA, coordinate with Form 2441 so you don’t double count. (irs.gov)
Education Credits (AOTC and LLC)
If you (or your older teen) paid college or eligible post‑secondary costs:
- American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): up to 2,500∗∗pereligiblestudent(402,500** per eligible student (40% refundable up to **1,000). Income phase‑outs start at 90,000∗∗MAGIforsingle/HOH(∗∗90,000** MAGI for single/HOH (**180,000 MFJ). Use Form 8863. (irs.gov)
- Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): up to 2,000∗∗perreturn(202,000** per return (20% of first **10,000) for any post‑secondary course to gain job skills; same income phase‑outs as AOTC. (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Claiming both AOTC and LLC for the same student in the same year (you can’t). Keep Form 1098‑T and book receipts. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If income is a hair over the phase‑out, check if above‑the‑line deductions (like traditional IRA contributions) can bring MAGI below the threshold; ask a VITA counselor for safe options. (irs.gov)
Saver’s Credit (for retirement contributions)
Low‑to‑moderate income workers can get a nonrefundable credit up to 1,000∗∗(single/HOH)forcontributionstoanIRAorworkplaceplan(rate501,000** (single/HOH) for contributions to an IRA or workplace plan (rate 50%, 20%, or 10% depending on AGI). 2024 HOH AGI ranges: up to **34,500 (50%), 34,501–34,501–37,500 (20%), 37,501–37,501–57,375 (10%). Maximum eligible contribution counted is $2,000. The IRS also confirms 2025 Saver’s Credit general thresholds and rules. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t afford a lump sum, set a tiny automatic weekly transfer to an IRA so you don’t miss the credit; you can still contribute for the prior year up to the April tax deadline (e.g., April 15, 2025 for 2024). (irs.gov)
Premium Tax Credit (health insurance savings through HealthCare.gov)
If you buy coverage on HealthCare.gov, the Premium Tax Credit lowers monthly premiums. Enhanced subsidies under the Inflation Reduction Act run through plan year 2025; you reconcile any advance payments on Form 8962 when you file. Repayment caps apply if your advance was too high. For 2024 returns, the repayment cap ranges from 375–375–3,150 based on income and filing status. (irs.gov)
How to get help now
- Marketplace Call Center: 1‑800‑318‑2596 (TTY 1‑855‑889‑4325) 24/7. HealthCare.gov Contact. (healthcare.gov)
- NH Insurance Department (consumer help/complaints): (603) 271‑2261 or in‑state toll‑free (800) 852‑3416. NHID Consumer Services. (insurance.nh.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not reporting income/family size changes to the Marketplace during the year—this is why some folks owe back part of the subsidy at tax time. See Form 8962 instructions. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you lose coverage or have a life change, call 1‑800‑318‑2596 and ask about a Special Enrollment Period; if you have a billing dispute or denial, call NHID Consumer Services. (healthcare.gov, insurance.nh.gov)
New Hampshire’s Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief (state program)
NH doesn’t tax wages and has no state EITC. But many single‑mom homeowners qualify for this property tax relief tied to the State Education Property Tax.
Most important action first: mark the filing window—apply after May 1 and no later than June 30 each year.
- Income limits: ≤ 37,000∗∗(single)or∗∗≤37,000** (single) or **≤ 47,000 (married or “head of NH household”). Must own and occupy a NH homestead on April 1; apply via Granite Tax Connect (GTC) or Form DP‑8. Allow up to 120 days for processing. Questions? (603) 230‑5920. NH DRA Property Tax Relief. (revenue.nh.gov)
- 2025 timeline example: May 1–June 30, 2025 submission window (same rules). NH DRA timeline notice. (revenue.nh.gov)
Application checklist (NH property tax relief)
- Most recent federal tax return (if you file).
- Final property tax bill showing assessment and State Education Property Tax.
- Homestead ownership and residency proof as of April 1.
- If homestead is in trust, include trust documents. (revenue.nh.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the June 30 deadline (no late filings).
- Using outdated forms (use DP‑8 for the current year) or not attaching your final property tax bill. (revenue.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your town about local exemptions/credits (elderly, disabled, veterans) and any hardship abatements; NH DRA can point you to local assessing staff: (603) 230‑5920. (revenue.nh.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Credit/Program | Max benefit (most single moms) | Who qualifies (high level) | How to claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| EITC | Up to 7,830(2024)∗∗/∗∗7,830 (2024)** / **8,046 (2025) with 3+ kids | Earned income under yearly limits; valid SSNs | Form 1040 + Schedule EIC (if claiming child) (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) |
| Child Tax Credit | 2,000∗∗perchild;upto∗∗2,000** per child; up to **1,700 refundable (2024) | Child under 17 with SSN; income phase‑outs | Form 1040 + Schedule 8812 (irs.gov) |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit | Up to 1,050∗∗(onechild)or∗∗1,050** (one child) or **2,100 (two+) at 35% rate; minimum 20% | Pay care to work/seek work; child <13 | Form 2441; keep provider info/receipts (irs.gov) |
| AOTC | Up to 2,500∗∗/student;∗∗2,500**/student; **1,000 refundable | 1st 4 years post‑secondary; income limits | Form 8863 (irs.gov) |
| LLC | Up to $2,000/return | Any post‑secondary courses; income limits | Form 8863 (irs.gov) |
| Saver’s Credit | Up to $1,000 (HOH) | Low‑mod income who contribute to IRA/plan | Form 8880 (irs.gov) |
| Premium Tax Credit | Varies (can be big monthly savings) | Marketplace plan; income rules | Form 8962; reconcile APTC (irs.gov) |
| NH Property Tax Relief | Award varies | NH homeowner under 37k∗∗single/∗∗37k** single / **47k HOH or married | GTC or Form DP‑8 by June 30 (revenue.nh.gov) |
Application Checklist (for filing taxes and credits)
- Photo ID; SSNs/ITINs for you and kids.
- W‑2s, 1099s (including 1099‑NEC for gig/self‑employment), any 1095‑A for Marketplace coverage.
- Childcare provider name, address, and SSN/EIN; receipts.
- Education Form 1098‑T; book/supply receipts.
- Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
- Prior‑year return (helps VITA volunteers).
- For NH property tax relief: final property tax bill and proof you lived at the homestead on April 1. (irs.gov, revenue.nh.gov)
Refund timelines, deadlines, and where to get help fast
- Tax Day for 2024 returns was April 15, 2025; for 2025 returns it’s April 15, 2026 (unless moved for weekends/holidays). Extensions give more time to file, not to pay. (irs.gov)
- EITC/ACTC refunds: IRS posts dates in late February; many direct deposits arrive by early March. Check status once a day at Where’s My Refund?. (irs.gov)
- Free filing help: VITA 800‑906‑9887; AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669; NH 211 for local appointments; IRS Free File partners on IRS.gov. (irs.gov, 211nh.org)
Refund timing table
| If you… | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| E‑file + direct deposit + no issues | About 21 days from IRS acceptance |
| Claim EITC/ACTC | Refunds generally deposit by early March for early filers |
| Paper file | 4+ weeks to show in “Where’s My Refund,” longer to receive |
Source: IRS refund timing guidance and PATH Act timing page. (irs.gov)
Local contacts and organizations (New Hampshire)
- NH Department of Revenue Administration (Property Tax Relief/DP‑8): (603) 230‑5920. Apply on Granite Tax Connect. (revenue.nh.gov)
- NH Insurance Department Consumer Services (health coverage issues/complaints): (603) 271‑2261; in‑state toll‑free (800) 852‑3416. Consumer Services page. (insurance.nh.gov)
- HealthCare.gov Marketplace Call Center: 1‑800‑318‑2596 (TTY 1‑855‑889‑4325), 24/7. Contact HealthCare.gov. (healthcare.gov)
- 211 NH (referrals to free tax prep, food, housing, childcare help): dial 211. 211 NH. (211nh.org)
- Granite United Way (regional offices; often partners with VITA): see office list, or call your region (Manchester 603‑625‑6939; Concord 603‑224‑2595, etc.). Granite United Way contacts. (graniteuw.org)
- New Hampshire Legal Assistance (civil legal aid; intake via 603 Legal Aid): (800) 639‑5290. NHLA. (nhla.org)
- Waypoint Family Resource Centers (parenting support, classes, basic needs help; multiple locations statewide): Waypoint NH – Family Resource Centers. (waypointnh.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you struggle to find a free tax site or can’t reach a state office, call 211 to get routed to active local partners and appointment lines. (211nh.org)
Diverse Communities: extra notes and routes to help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: You can claim EITC/CTC when you meet the same residency and relationship tests. If discrimination or denial of services occurs with insurers, call NH Insurance Department Consumer Services (603‑271‑2261/800‑852‑3416). (insurance.nh.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising a child with disabilities: EITC has special disability‑income rules; the residency test is still required. For care‑related expenses, the Dependent Care Credit can apply for a spouse/dependent of any age who can’t self‑care. See Pub 503. (irs.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You may file at VITA/TCE sites, including AARP Tax‑Aide; veterans frequently qualify for EITC. Use VITA locator or call 800‑906‑9887; AARP 888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: For CTC, your child must have an SSN valid for employment; you may file with an ITIN. Filing brings access to CTC/LLC and protects future eligibility. See IRS FAQ on SSN requirement for CTC. For marketplace coverage help with language access, use HealthCare.gov (1‑800‑318‑2596) or NH Insurance Department Consumer Services. (irs.gov, healthcare.gov, insurance.nh.gov)
- Tribal citizens in NH: If you are a Native family living in NH, federal tax credits (EITC/CTC/AOTC/LLC) work the same. If you were placed with a foster child through a tribal government, that child can meet the EITC foster‑child rule. (irs.gov)
- Rural single moms: If the nearest VITA site is far, try IRS Free File online and a phone appointment with a Marketplace Navigator; use 1‑800‑318‑2596 or 211 to find phone help. (irs.gov, 211nh.org)
- Single fathers: Same rules and credits; if you’re the custodial parent, you can claim EITC even if the other parent claims the dependent for CTC with Form 8332. See Pub 596. (irs.gov)
- Language access: IRS forms and tools are available in multiple languages; the EITC Assistant is offered in Spanish and more. The Marketplace has interpreter services at 1‑800‑318‑2596. (go.usa.gov, healthcare.gov)
Real‑world examples (with numbers)
- HOH retail worker, 1 child age 6, 2024 wages 28,000∗∗:Standarddeduction∗∗28,000**: Standard deduction **21,900 leaves 6,100∗∗taxable.LikelyeligibleforEITC(onechild)andCTC(∗∗6,100** taxable. Likely eligible for EITC (one child) and CTC (**2,000, up to $1,700 refundable). Use EITC Assistant to estimate; file with Free File or VITA. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- Nursing assistant, 2 kids, 2024 wages 41,000∗∗,pays∗∗41,000**, pays **5,200 for after‑school and summer day camp: May qualify for EITC (two children), partial CTC/ACTC, and a Child & Dependent Care Credit (20%–35% of up to $6,000 eligible expenses). Keep receipts and provider EIN/SSN. (irs.gov)
- Homeowner mom, HOH AGI 43,500∗∗,ownsandlivesinherNHhomeApril1:CanapplyforNHpropertytaxreliefifunder∗∗43,500**, owns and lives in her NH home April 1: Can apply for NH property tax relief if under **47,000 for HOH/married. File via Granite Tax Connect by June 30; processing up to 120 days. (revenue.nh.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing MFS without checking if you qualify as HOH (many separated moms do).
- Letting someone else claim your child when they didn’t live with them > half the year—fix this early to avoid audits/delays. (irs.gov)
- Forgetting to add Marketplace 1095‑A and reconcile on Form 8962 (can delay refunds and risk future APTC). (irs.gov)
- Missing NH’s June 30 property tax relief deadline or forgetting to attach the final tax bill. (revenue.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B everywhere)
- Can’t get your refund date? Check Where’s My Refund? once daily; if the tool says call, follow that advice. (irs.gov)
- Struggling to file? Book VITA (call 211 or 800‑906‑9887), or use IRS Free File. (irs.gov, 211nh.org)
- Health plan or billing dispute? Call NH Insurance Department Consumer Services (603‑271‑2261 / 800‑852‑3416). (insurance.nh.gov)
- Denied NH property tax relief? Call (603) 230‑5920 for DRA Taxpayer Services to review your DP‑8 or discuss next steps. (revenue.nh.gov)
Data corner (for NH)
- In the latest IRS state stats available (Tax Year 2022), about 57,000 NH returns claimed EITC, totaling 112million∗∗;averageabout∗∗112 million**; average about **1,978. If you qualify, don’t leave this money unclaimed. (eitc.irs.gov)
Tables you can skim fast
1) EITC income and credit highlights (single/HOH)
| Year | Kids | Max credit | Investment income limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 0/1/2/3+ | 632/632 / 4,213 / 6,960/6,960 / 7,830 | $11,600 |
| 2025 | 0/1/2/3+ | 649/649 / 4,328 / 7,152/7,152 / 8,046 | $11,950 |
Sources: IRS EITC 2024; IRS IRB 2024‑45 for 2025. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
2) Standard deductions (so you know your starting line)
| Year | Single/MFS | HOH | MFJ/QSS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $14,600 | $21,900 | $29,200 |
| 2025 | $15,000 | $22,500 | $30,000 |
Sources: IRS News (2024); IRS IRB 2024‑45 (2025). (irs.gov)
3) Child Tax Credit (2024)
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Max CTC per child | $2,000 |
| Max refundable ACTC | $1,700 |
| Phase‑out starts | 200,000∗∗Single/HOH;∗∗200,000** Single/HOH; **400,000 MFJ |
| Form | Schedule 8812 |
Source: IRS 2024 Schedule 8812 Instructions. (irs.gov)
4) Child & Dependent Care Credit
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Eligible expenses counted | Up to 3,000∗∗(1child)/∗∗3,000** (1 child) / **6,000 (2+ children) |
| Credit rate | 20%–35% (depends on AGI) |
| Form | 2441 |
Source: IRS Publication 503. (irs.gov)
5) NH Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief
| Item | Requirement/Amount |
|---|---|
| Income limits | ≤ 37,000∗∗single;∗∗≤37,000** single; **≤ 47,000 married or head of NH household |
| Residency | Own and occupy NH homestead on April 1 |
| Filing window | May 1 – June 30 (annual) |
| Processing time | Up to 120 days |
| Apply | Granite Tax Connect or Form DP‑8 |
| Help line | (603) 230‑5920 |
Source: NH DRA. (revenue.nh.gov)
FAQs (New Hampshire and single‑mom‑specific)
- Does New Hampshire have its own EITC?
- No. NH has no wage income tax and no state EITC. Claim the federal EITC only. (revenue.nh.gov)
- I’m separated and my ex claims our child as a dependent. Can I still get EITC?
- If your child lived with you > half the year, you may qualify for EITC as the custodial parent even if your ex claims the child as a dependent via Form 8332 for CTC. Keep school/daycare records. (irs.gov)
- How long will my EITC/ACTC refund take?
- By law, the IRS can’t issue these refunds before mid‑February; many early filers see direct deposits by early March. Check “Where’s My Refund?” daily. (irs.gov)
- My child has an SSN, but I have an ITIN. Can I get the Child Tax Credit?
- Yes, if your child has an SSN valid for employment and you meet other rules. File Form 1040 + Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
- I pay for after‑school care so I can work. What credit can I claim?
- Likely the Child & Dependent Care Credit (up to 3,000∗∗expensesforonechild;∗∗3,000** expenses for one child; **6,000 for two+; 20%–35% credit). Keep receipts and provider TIN. (irs.gov)
- Where can I get free tax prep in NH?
- I bought Marketplace coverage and got advance subsidies. Do I need to do anything at tax time?
- Yes. You must file Form 8962 to reconcile your advance payments (APTC), or you could owe money and lose future APTC. (irs.gov)
- I own a home in NH. Is there any relief for property taxes?
- Possibly. If your AGI is ≤ 37,000∗∗(single)or∗∗≤37,000** (single) or **≤ 47,000 (married/HOH) and you lived in your NH homestead on April 1, apply for state property tax relief by June 30. (revenue.nh.gov)
- What are the 2025 EITC max amounts?
- For 2025 returns, max EITC is 8,046∗∗(3+kids),∗∗8,046** (3+ kids), **7,152 (2 kids), 4,328∗∗(1kid),∗∗4,328** (1 kid), **649 (no kids). Investment income limit $11,950. (irs.gov)
- I’m not sure if I need to file a return at all.
- Most workers do, and filing is how you claim EITC/CTC. If your 2024 gross income is at least $21,900 (HOH), you generally must file; but you may want to file even if income is lower to get a refund. (irs.gov)
“If nothing else, do these 5 things” (for the busiest moms)
- Use the IRS EITC Assistant and file if you qualify.
- Claim CTC/ACTC on Schedule 8812 if your child is under 17 with SSN.
- Add Form 2441 if you pay childcare so you can work.
- Reconcile Marketplace APTC on Form 8962 if you had HealthCare.gov coverage.
- If you own a NH home and meet the income limits, apply for property tax relief by June 30 at Granite Tax Connect (call 603‑230‑5920 if stuck). (revenue.nh.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Hampshire 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 confirm on the official websites and forms linked above before you apply or file.
- Security: Use only the official sites linked here (irs.gov, healthcare.gov, revenue.nh.gov, insurance.nh.gov, 211nh.org). Don’t click random emails/texts asking for your SSN or banking info. If in doubt, call the official numbers listed in this guide.
- This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice for your specific situation. For personalized advice, talk to a qualified tax professional or a VITA/TCE counselor.
- We do not collect personal data. Keep your device updated, use strong passwords, and access only secure “https” sites when submitting documents online.
Sources (selected)
- IRS EITC limits and amounts for 2024; qualifying child rules; EITC Assistant; refund timing. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- 2025 EITC amounts and ACTC refundable cap; 2025 standard deduction (IRB 2024‑45/Rev. Proc. 2024‑40). (irs.gov)
- 2024 Schedule 8812 (CTC/ACTC) and SSN rules for the child. (irs.gov)
- Child & Dependent Care Credit rules (Pub 503). (irs.gov)
- Education credits (Pub 970; Form 8863 instructions). (irs.gov)
- Saver’s Credit (IRS page and IRS news). (irs.gov)
- Premium Tax Credit reconciliation and repayment caps (Form 8962 instructions). (irs.gov)
- Standard deduction 2024 and 2025 amounts. (irs.gov)
- NH Interest & Dividends tax repeal; no wage income tax (no state EITC). (revenue.nh.gov)
- NH Low & Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief (eligibility, window, timeline, phone). (revenue.nh.gov)
- Free tax prep (VITA/TCE; NH 211); HealthCare.gov contacts; NH Insurance Department consumer help. (irs.gov, 211nh.org, healthcare.gov, insurance.nh.gov)
- EITC participation and NH state stats (TY2022). (eitc.irs.gov)
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it fast.
🏛️More New Hampshire Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Hampshire
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- 🔧 Job Training
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- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
