EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in New Jersey
New Jersey EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is your practical, New Jersey‑specific hub for getting every dollar you qualify for on your 2024 tax return (filed in 2025). It covers federal and NJ credits, how to apply fast, what the numbers are right now, and what to do if something goes sideways.
— Quick Help Box —
- File for free now: Use IRS Direct File (federal) + NJ state filing in one smooth flow if you lived and worked in New Jersey all year. It supports EITC, CTC, CDCC, and more. Start at IRS Direct File. It’s open through extension season and free. If Direct File doesn’t fit your situation, use IRS Free File or a local VITA site below. (irs.gov, nj.gov)
- Free, in‑person tax prep (VITA/TCE): Call 800‑906‑9887 to find a site, or use the IRS locator. NJ 2‑1‑1 can also connect you (dial 2‑1‑1 or 877‑652‑1148). Examples: United Way Northern NJ (virtual + in‑person), New Jersey Citizen Action (Newark drop‑off: 888‑829‑3711). (nj.gov, nj211.org, vita.unitedwaynnj.org, njcitizenaction.org)
- NJ Division of Taxation help: Customer Service Center 609‑292‑6400; Refund status line 800‑323‑4400 (24/7); Property Tax Relief (ANCHOR/Senior Freeze) 888‑238‑1233. Regional Information Centers are open statewide. (nj.gov, www16.state.nj.us, nj.gov)
- Key filing deadlines: 2024 NJ return due April 15, 2025 (match to federal). E‑file + direct deposit = fastest refund. (nj.gov)
- EITC/ACTC refund timing: Expect “Where’s My Refund?” to update by around February 22; most early EITC/ACTC filers see deposits by about March 3 (if no issues). (irs.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (2024 tax year, filed in 2025)
| Credit | Who qualifies (headline) | Max credit | NJ twist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | Workers with low–moderate earnings; amount depends on income and number of kids | Up to 7,830∗∗(3+kids);∗∗7,830** (3+ kids); **6,960 (2); 4,213∗∗(1);∗∗4,213** (1); **632 (0) | NJ adds 40% of your federal EITC (or a flat amount for 18+ with no kids) |
| NJ Earned Income Tax Credit (NJEITC) | NJ residents who claim federal EITC, plus NJ allows age 18+ with or without kids | Up to 3,132∗∗(3+);∗∗3,132** (3+); **2,784 (2); 1,685∗∗(1);∗∗1,685** (1); **253 (0 kids, 18+) | NJ amount is exactly 40% of your federal EITC (except the special 18+ no‑kids amount) |
| Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) | Each child under 17 with SSN; income phase‑outs apply | Up to 2,000/child∗∗;upto∗∗2,000/child**; up to **1,700/child refundable (ACTC) | Parent may use SSN or ITIN; child must have SSN |
| NJ Child Tax Credit | Each child age 5 or younger; income ≤ $80,000 | **1,000∗∗(≤1,000** (≤30k); **800∗∗(800** (30–40k); **600∗∗(600** (40–50k); **400∗∗(400** (50–60k); **200∗∗(200** (60–80k) per eligible child | Refundable; SSN or ITIN OK; not available if Married Filing Separately |
| Federal Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCTC) | Work‑related care for kids <13 or disabled dependents | Up to 3,000∗∗(onechild)or∗∗3,000** (one child) or **6,000 (two+), credit 20–35% | Non‑refundable |
| NJ Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCC) | You claimed the federal CDCTC; NJ taxable income ≤ $150,000 | 10–50% of your federal CDCTC (refundable) | Scales with income bands |
Sources: IRS Pub 596 and EITC Central (2024 limits); NJ Division of Taxation (NJEITC % and amounts, NJ CTC, NJ CDCC). (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov, nj.gov, nj.gov)
Start here: File once, claim all the credits
- Use IRS Direct File if you lived/worked in NJ all year and your situation matches supported income/credits. It can handle federal EITC, CTC, CDCC, Premium Tax Credit, and then routes you to NJ’s free state filing. It’s mobile‑friendly, has chat support, and is free. If Direct File isn’t a fit, use IRS Free File or VITA/TCE. (irs.gov, nj.gov)
- If you earn cash, gig income, or move between jobs, gather every W‑2/1099, childcare receipts, and SSNs/ITINs for you and kids. Filing early reduces refund delays. E‑file + direct deposit is fastest. (irs.gov)
- Expect EITC/ACTC refunds to be held by law until mid‑February. The IRS posts personalized dates in “Where’s My Refund?” by around February 22 for early filers; many get deposits by about March 3 if smooth. New Jersey e‑file refunds typically show in about 4 weeks (paper ~12 weeks). (irs.gov, www16.state.nj.us)
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Most important action: check your 2024 income and kid count against the IRS EITC chart, then file to claim it.
- 2024 income limits (Single/HOH): up to 49,084∗∗(1child),∗∗49,084** (1 child), **55,768 (2), 59,899∗∗(3+),or∗∗59,899** (3+), or **18,591 (no kids). Max credits range 632–632–7,830. Investment income must be ≤ $11,600. (eitc.irs.gov)
- To qualify, you must have earned income, meet AGI limits, have valid SSNs (you, spouse, kids), and use an allowed filing status (separated‑spouse special rule may apply; see IRS). See IRS Pub 596 for details. (irs.gov)
- Timeline: By law (PATH Act), EITC/ACTC refunds aren’t released before mid‑February. IRS shows dates by about February 22; many early filers see refunds by about March 3 with direct deposit. (irs.gov)
Table: 2024 Federal EITC at a glance
| Children | Max credit | Income must be below (Single/HOH) |
|---|---|---|
| 3+ | $7,830 | $59,899 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 |
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 |
Source: IRS EITC Central (Tax Year 2024). (eitc.irs.gov)
Examples you can copy
- If your federal EITC comes out to 6,000∗∗fortwokids,keepthatnumber:NewJerseywilladd∗∗406,000** for two kids, keep that number: New Jersey will add **40%** (another **2,400) as NJEITC—claimed on your NJ‑1040. (nj.gov)
What to submit
- Photo ID; SSNs for you/kids; W‑2/1099; school records for kids if asked; proof of address. Use VITA if you’re unsure. (nj.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing or wrong SSNs, listing a child who didn’t live with you over half the year, or claiming with Married Filing Separately (unless you meet the IRS separated‑spouse rule). These trigger delays or denials. Use the IRS EITC Assistant to pre‑check. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If the IRS denies your federal EITC, New Jersey will deny NJEITC too—unless your only federal problem is age. If you’re 18+ with no kids, NJ may still give you a small NJEITC (see next section). Get free help from VITA or call IRS 800‑829‑1040 for guidance. (nj.gov, irs.gov)
New Jersey Earned Income Tax Credit (NJEITC)
Most important action: claim your federal EITC first. Then New Jersey adds its own amount automatically on your NJ‑1040.
- NJEITC is 40% of your federal EITC for 2024. If your federal EITC is 4,000∗∗,yourNJEITCis∗∗4,000**, your NJEITC is **1,600. Max NJEITC is 3,132∗∗(3+kids),∗∗3,132** (3+ kids), **2,784 (2), 1,685∗∗(1).NJgives∗∗1,685** (1). NJ gives **253 to eligible 18+ workers with no kids (special NJ rule). (nj.gov)
- Age break: NJ lets workers 18+ claim NJEITC even without kids (federal EITC has stricter age rules). You still need a valid SSN and to file NJ‑1040. (nj.gov)
- Residency: Part‑year residents prorate based on months in NJ (15 days = a month). Example on the state site shows how to prorate before multiplying by 40%. (nj.gov)
- Filing status & SSNs: Follow federal rules and use valid SSNs for you, spouse, kids. As of 2024, NJEITC does not accept ITINs for this credit. (nj.gov)
Table: 2024 NJEITC maximums (when you qualify for federal EITC)
| Children | Max NJEITC |
|---|---|
| 3+ | $3,132 |
| 2 | $2,784 |
| 1 | $1,685 |
| 0 (age 18+) | $253 |
Source: NJ Division of Taxation (Know & Calculate NJEITC). (nj.gov)
How to apply (fastest path)
- File your federal return and get your federal EITC number.
- File NJ‑1040 (free NJ online filing or via Direct File flow) and the credit will compute. Need help? NJ Customer Service 609‑292‑6400; Refund status 800‑323‑4400. (nj.gov)
Reality check on timing
- NJ e‑file refunds show in about 4 weeks; paper returns can take 12+ weeks; claims with EITC may get extra review. Track at NJ’s refund website. (www16.state.nj.us)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting to file NJ‑1040 because your income is low. You must file to get the credit. Entering the wrong federal EITC amount will mis‑calculate the NJEITC. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If federal EITC is denied for anything other than age, NJEITC is usually denied. If you get a letter, respond by the deadline with any documents they ask. Still stuck after 120 days? Try the NJ Office of the Taxpayer Advocate online or call 609‑292‑6400 and ask for escalation. (nj.gov)
Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) + Additional CTC (refund)
Most important action: file Schedule 8812 with your return and check your child’s SSN.
- For 2024, the CTC is 2,000perqualifyingchild∗∗under17;upto∗∗2,000 per qualifying child** under 17; up to **1,700 per child can be refundable as the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). Phase‑out starts at 200,000∗∗(Single/HOH)and∗∗200,000** (Single/HOH) and **400,000 (MFJ). The child must have an SSN issued by the due date. Parent can have SSN or ITIN. (irs.gov)
- Refunds with ACTC are held until mid‑February by law; most early filers see status by Feb 22 and deposits around March 3 (if no issues). (irs.gov)
- If the child lacks an SSN, you cannot claim CTC/ACTC, but you may claim the $500 nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents (ODC) if the dependent has an SSN/ITIN/ATIN. (irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing SSN for the child, using the wrong filing status, or forgetting to attach Schedule 8812 can delay refunds and may trigger a two‑year ban for reckless claims. Keep records. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If IRS rejects your CTC, check if your child’s SSN was issued after the filing due date or if the child turned 17 in 2024. You may still get the ODC ($500). Call IRS 800‑829‑1040 or visit a VITA site. (irs.gov)
New Jersey Child Tax Credit (state)
Most important action: If you have kids age 5 or younger and NJ taxable income ≤ $80,000, claim this on your NJ‑1040—it’s refundable.
- Full‑year resident amounts for 2024 (per child age ≤5): 1,000∗∗(≤∗∗1,000** (≤**30,000 income), 800∗∗(∗∗800** (**30–40k), 600∗∗(∗∗600** (**40–50k), 400∗∗(∗∗400** (**50–60k), 200∗∗(∗∗200** (**60–80k). Part‑year residents get prorated amounts. Parent can use SSN or ITIN; the child must be your dependent. Married filing separately is not allowed for this credit. (nj.gov)
- Last updated by NJ: April 21, 2025 (for 2024 tax year). Check the NJ page for any changes before you file. (nj.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming kids aged 6–12 qualify—currently this state credit is for under age 6 only (age 5 or younger by year‑end). Missing the NJ filing because your income was under the general filing threshold. You must file to get the money. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you don’t meet age/income rules for the NJ Child Tax Credit, still claim federal CTC/ACTC and NJEITC if eligible. Consider the NJ Child & Dependent Care Credit if you paid for care to work. (nj.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credits (work‑related child care)
Most important action: get your provider’s info (name, address, EIN/SSN) and your receipts before you file.
- Federal CDCTC (nonrefundable): Credit of 20–35% of up to 3,000∗∗(onechild)or∗∗3,000** (one child) or **6,000 (two+) in work‑related care so you can work or look for work. Use Form 2441; you need the provider’s TIN. (irs.gov)
- New Jersey CDCC (refundable): If you claimed the federal CDCTC and your NJ taxable income is ≤ 150,000∗∗,NJgivesyou∗∗10–50150,000**, NJ gives you **10–50%** of your federal credit as a refundable credit. For 2021–2023, the bands are: ≤**30k (50%), 30–60k∗∗(4030–60k** (40%), **60–90k (30%), 90–120k∗∗(2090–120k** (20%), **120–150k (10%). NJ reports the same structure continuing; confirm in the NJ‑1040 instructions for your year. (nj.gov)
Table: NJ Child & Dependent Care Credit (recent law)
| NJ taxable income | NJ credit (as % of your federal CDCTC) |
|---|---|
| ≤ $30,000 | 50% |
| 30,001–30,001–60,000 | 40% |
| 60,001–60,001–90,000 | 30% |
| 90,001–90,001–120,000 | 20% |
| 120,001–120,001–150,000 | 10% |
Source: NJ Division of Taxation (CDCC). (nj.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Paying cash without records, missing the provider’s TIN, or using care that wasn’t so you could work/seek work (playdates don’t count). Keep receipts and a year‑end statement. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your income is too high for NJ’s CDCC or you didn’t claim the federal CDCTC, you can’t get NJ’s version. Still claim the federal if you’re eligible, and look into state childcare subsidy programs outside of taxes (via NJ 2‑1‑1). (nj211.org)
Other New Jersey tax relief worth knowing
- Dependent exemption: NJ allows a $1,500 exemption per dependent on NJ‑1040, separate from credits. (nj.gov)
- Property tax relief (ANCHOR): For 2025 (based on 2024 residency/income), typical amounts are 1,500∗∗or∗∗1,500** or **1,000 for homeowners (depending on income), and 450∗∗forrenters,witha∗∗450** for renters, with a **250 bonus for age 65+. Payments usually arrive within about 90 days of filing, with many processed starting September 15. Income limits: homeowners up to 250,000∗∗;rentersupto∗∗250,000**; renters up to **150,000. Check your letter or apply online; identity verification now uses ID.me. ANCHOR hotlines 888‑238‑1233 or 609‑826‑4282. (nj.gov)
- Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement): For seniors/disabled homeowners who meet the 2‑year residency and income limits (163,050∗∗for2023and∗∗163,050** for 2023 and **168,268 for 2024). Now part of a combined application for seniors that can also cover ANCHOR and “Stay NJ.” (nj.gov)
Step‑by‑step: How a NJ single mom can stack credits
- File federal + NJ returns (Direct File, Free File, or VITA). This is how you unlock EITC, CTC/ACTC, federal CDCTC, NJEITC, NJ CTC, and NJ CDCC. Use direct deposit. (irs.gov)
- Use the IRS EITC and CTC rules to verify kid eligibility before you claim—especially custody and residency. Keep school/medical/mail documents showing the child lived with you >6 months. (irs.gov)
- If you paid for childcare so you could work, get your provider’s EIN/SSN and receipts—this is essential for federal and NJ care credits. (irs.gov)
- After you file, track refunds: IRS “Where’s My Refund?” and NJ refund status page. Expect PATH Act holds until mid‑Feb for EITC/ACTC; NJ refunds are generally 4 weeks e‑file / 12+ weeks paper. (irs.gov, www16.state.nj.us)
Real‑world examples (easy math)
- Two kids, federal EITC calculated at 6,000∗∗:NJEITCadds∗∗6,000**: NJEITC adds **2,400 (40%). Total from EITC programs: 8,400∗∗.Ifbothkidsareunder17withSSNs,CTCcouldaddupto∗∗8,400**. If both kids are under 17 with SSNs, CTC could add up to **4,000 (with up to 3,400∗∗potentiallyrefundable).IfyouusedpaidchildcaresoyoucouldworkandhaveafederalCDCTCof∗∗3,400** potentially refundable). If you used paid childcare so you could work and have a federal CDCTC of **1,200, NJ CDCC could add 120–120–600 depending on your NJ income band. Always run your exact numbers in software or with VITA. (nj.gov, irs.gov)
- One toddler (age 3), NJ taxable income 37,000∗∗:NJChildTaxCreditadds∗∗37,000**: NJ Child Tax Credit adds **800 for that child (state only). If you also claim federal CTC (2,000∗∗,upto∗∗2,000**, up to **1,700 refundable) and have federal/NJ EITC, the stack can be significant. (nj.gov, irs.gov)
Application Checklist (print or save)
- Photo ID; SSNs/ITINs for you/children; last year’s return (helps verify identity).
- W‑2/1099 forms; self‑employment records; unemployment (1099‑G); Social Security (SSA‑1099).
- Child info: birthdates, school/daycare records showing address and time lived with you (>6 months).
- Childcare provider details: name, address, EIN/SSN, total paid.
- Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
- Proof of NJ residency if part‑year; month counts (15 days = a month). (nj.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Relying on estimates. Enter exact W‑2/1099 amounts; wrong numbers mean delays.
- Claiming a child who didn’t live with you >6 months or lacks an SSN (for federal CTC/EITC). (irs.gov)
- Skipping NJ‑1040 because your income is low. You must file to get NJEITC/NJ CTC/NJ CDCC. (nj.gov)
- Forgetting childcare provider TIN; that blocks the credit. (irs.gov)
- Expecting instant refunds. EITC/ACTC are held until mid‑Feb; NJ refunds typically take 4 (e‑file) to 12+ (paper) weeks. (irs.gov, www16.state.nj.us)
What to do if you hit a wall (Plan B options)
- Free expert help: IRS VITA/TCE (800‑906‑9887), NJ 2‑1‑1 (2‑1‑1 or 877‑652‑1148), United Way/Local VITA portals. (nj.gov, vita.unitedwaynnj.org)
- IRS issues: Call 800‑829‑1040; TAS intake line 877‑777‑4778 for hardship or unresolved delays. (irs.gov)
- NJ tax issues: Customer Service 609‑292‑6400; schedule a callback or visit a Regional Information Center; bring your notice, return, and ID. (nj.gov)
Diverse Communities: tailored tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: New Jersey recognizes civil unions and domestic partnerships for state tax purposes; filing status and dependent rules follow federal definitions. Use VITA sites with language access and inclusive services (United Way, NJCA). For legal name/gender marker issues affecting taxes, ask VITA to flag identity verification early and bring court/SSA documents. (nj.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising disabled children: A child who is permanently and totally disabled can qualify you for EITC at any age. Keep SSA/medical documentation. For care costs so you can work, use CDCTC + NJ CDCC. (irs.gov, nj.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Use free MilTax (DoD) if eligible; it includes up to three state returns at no cost. Coordinate VA, SSA, and W‑2 income in software to avoid AGI mismatches that delay EITC. (irs.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee moms (ITIN filers): You can get the NJ Child Tax Credit (child age ≤5) with SSN or ITIN, and federal ODC ($500) if a child lacks SSN. Federal EITC requires SSNs for you/child; NJEITC also requires SSNs. Need an ITIN? NJ Citizen Action can help with ITIN applications during tax season (888‑829‑3711). (nj.gov, irs.gov, nj.gov, njcitizenaction.org)
- Tribal citizens: If you receive income from tribally controlled programs or per capita distributions, bring those documents to VITA so filings reflect the proper tax treatment. EITC/CTC depend on earned income and residency—keep school/medical records for children. (Use IRS VITA to locate a preparer with experience.) (nj.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited internet: Call VITA (800‑906‑9887) to find in‑person help; NJ has Regional Information Centers (Cranford, Fair Lawn, Freehold, Galloway, Trenton). Consider paper filing only if necessary—refunds take longer. (nj.gov)
- Single fathers and other caregivers: All rules here apply to qualifying caregivers—it’s about who the child lived with and who meets IRS/NJ definitions. If custody is shared, the parent with whom the child lived >6 months generally claims EITC; consider Form 8332 rules for other credits. (irs.gov)
- Language access: IRS phone help is available in 350+ languages. For Spanish, call 800‑829‑1040; for other languages, 833‑553‑9895. VITA sites often offer Spanish and other language support. (irs.gov)
Resources by region (how to get help near you)
- NJ Division of Taxation Regional Information Centers (hours and addresses): Cranford, Fair Lawn, Freehold, Galloway, Trenton. Walk‑in hours posted; bring ID and notices. (nj.gov)
- United Way VITA (Northern NJ): online portal + in‑person appointments; phone 973‑993‑1160 x5. Central Jersey (Milltown/Middlesex): 732‑247‑3730; Passaic County VITA details online. (vita.unitedwaynnj.org, uwcj.org, unitedwaypassaic.org)
- NJ Citizen Action (statewide tax help & ITIN): Newark drop‑off center 888‑829‑3711; offices also in Highland Park & Cherry Hill. (njcitizenaction.org, njcaef.org)
- NJ 2‑1‑1: see county tax‑assistance listings and get referrals for child care, housing, utilities, and more. Dial 2‑1‑1, text your ZIP to 898‑211, or use the online directory. (nj211.org)
Timelines that matter
- File by April 15, 2025 (calendar‑year filers). You can e‑file an extension, but you must pay any tax due by the deadline to avoid penalties/interest. (nj.gov)
- Federal EITC/ACTC: “Where’s My Refund?” updates by ~Feb 22; most early filers see deposits around Mar 3 (if no issues). (irs.gov)
- NJ refunds: typically 4 weeks (e‑file) and 12+ weeks (paper). Use the NJ refund status tool or call 800‑323‑4400. (www16.state.nj.us)
FAQ (New Jersey‑specific, 10 quick answers)
- Can I get NJEITC if I’m 18 with no kids?
Yes—New Jersey allows 18+ workers to claim a small NJEITC ($253 for 2024), even though federal EITC is stricter for childless filers. You must file NJ‑1040 and meet income rules. (nj.gov) - Do ITIN filers get NJEITC?
Not currently. NJEITC requires SSNs for you/spouse/children (mirrors federal EITC). Bills to expand it exist but are not law. (nj.gov) - Can ITIN filers get the NJ Child Tax Credit?
Yes. NJ CTC allows SSN or ITIN for the taxpayer. The child must be age 5 or younger, your dependent, and you must meet the income limits. (nj.gov) - I share custody. Who claims EITC in NJ?
Follow federal EITC rules: generally the parent the child lived with >6 months. NJEITC follows federal eligibility. Keep school/medical/mail records. (irs.gov) - How long will my NJ refund take?
E‑filed returns: about 4 weeks; paper: 12 weeks or more. Use the NJ refund checker or call 800‑323‑4400. (www16.state.nj.us) - I paid my mom to watch my child so I could work. Can I claim care credits?
Yes, if she reports the income and you have her SSN. Claim the federal CDCTC (Form 2441); NJ CDCC is a percentage of the federal credit and is refundable up to 10–50% based on NJ income. (irs.gov, nj.gov) - Do kids 6–12 qualify for the NJ Child Tax Credit?
Not as of 2024/2025—the NJ credit is for children age 5 or younger. Check NJ’s page each year in case of changes. (nj.gov) - If the IRS holds my refund for EITC/ACTC, does NJ hold too?
Federal holds don’t control NJ timing, but NJ may take extra time to verify EITC‑related returns. Plan for ~4 weeks e‑file. (www16.state.nj.us) - I’m behind on bills—any quick property tax relief?
Check ANCHOR (homeowners up to 1,500∗∗/∗∗1,500**/**1,000 depending on income, renters 450∗∗,seniors∗∗+450**, seniors **+250) and Senior Freeze if eligible. Payments usually start rolling by Sept 15 and within ~90 days of filing. Hotlines: 888‑238‑1233 / 609‑826‑4282. (nj.gov) - Who can I call for plain‑English help?
Start with VITA (800‑906‑9887), NJ 2‑1‑1 (2‑1‑1), or NJ Taxation (609‑292‑6400). For unresolved IRS issues and hardship, TAS at 877‑777‑4778. (nj.gov, irs.gov)
Tables you can skim fast
Table: 2024 Federal CTC/ACTC basics
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| CTC per child under 17 (with SSN) | $2,000 |
| Max refundable ACTC per child | $1,700 |
| Phase‑out starts (Single/HOH) | $200,000 MAGI |
| Phase‑out starts (MFJ) | $400,000 MAGI |
Source: 2024 Schedule 8812 Instructions. (irs.gov)
Table: NJ Child Tax Credit (2024, per child age ≤5)
| NJ taxable income | Credit |
|---|---|
| ≤ $30,000 | $1,000 |
| 30,001–30,001–40,000 | $800 |
| 40,001–40,001–50,000 | $600 |
| 50,001–50,001–60,000 | $400 |
| 60,001–60,001–80,000 | $200 |
Source: NJ Division of Taxation. (nj.gov)
Table: 2024 Federal EITC income limits (Single/HOH)
| Children | Income must be less than |
|---|---|
| 3+ | $59,899 |
| 2 | $55,768 |
| 1 | $49,084 |
| 0 | $18,591 |
Source: IRS EITC Central (Tax Year 2024). (eitc.irs.gov)
Table: 2024 NJEITC maximums
| Children | Max NJEITC |
|---|---|
| 3+ | $3,132 |
| 2 | $2,784 |
| 1 | $1,685 |
| 0 (age 18+) | $253 |
Source: NJ Division of Taxation. (nj.gov)
Table: ANCHOR (2025 season, based on 2024)
| Group | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Homeowners ≤ $150,000 income | 1,500∗∗(seniors∗∗1,500** (seniors **1,750) |
| Homeowners 150,001–150,001–250,000 | 1,000∗∗(seniors∗∗1,000** (seniors **1,250) |
| Renters ≤ $150,000 | 450∗∗(seniors∗∗450** (seniors **700) |
Payments typically within ~90 days of applying; rollouts begin around Sept 15. Source: NJ Treasury/NJ Division of Taxation. (nj.gov)
Reality checks, warnings, and tips
- Refund timing is not instant. The PATH Act holds up EITC/ACTC refunds until mid‑Feb—even if you filed early and chose direct deposit. Don’t plan rent or daycare payments on a date earlier than the IRS gives you. (irs.gov)
- Identity checks are common. If NJ or IRS asks for documents, respond by the deadline; otherwise refunds stop. NJ uses ID.me for ANCHOR identity verification this season. (nj.gov)
- Ignore scam calls. NJ won’t call from 609‑292‑6400 demanding instant payment. When in doubt, hang up and call NJ Taxation yourself. (nj.gov)
Where to get help—fast
- IRS Direct File / Free File (federal + route to NJ)
- VITA/TCE phone 800‑906‑9887; IRS individual help 800‑829‑1040 (Spanish help available); TAS 877‑777‑4778 for hardship. (nj.gov, irs.gov)
- NJ Division of Taxation: Customer Service 609‑292‑6400; refund status 800‑323‑4400; property tax relief 888‑238‑1233 or 609‑826‑4282; Regional Information Centers statewide. (nj.gov, www16.state.nj.us, nj.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Jersey 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, filing tools, and timelines change. Always verify the latest details on the official pages linked throughout this guide before you apply or rely on a date or amount.
- This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice for your specific situation. For personalized help, use VITA/TCE, a qualified tax professional, or the agencies linked here.
- Site safety: Don’t post or send your SSN, ITIN, bank account, or other sensitive data via public comments or unsecured email. Use official portals only (IRS.gov, nj.gov). Keep your device updated and use trusted Wi‑Fi when uploading documents.
Key sources we used and dated
- IRS EITC amounts/limits for 2024; Pub 596 and EITC Central (updated 2025‑04‑10). (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
- IRS “When to expect your refund if you claimed EITC/ACTC” (updated 2025‑08‑26). (irs.gov)
- 2024 Schedule 8812 Instructions (ACTC up to $1,700; 2024). (irs.gov)
- NJ Division of Taxation: NJEITC (40% of federal), 2024 maximums, part‑year rules (updated 2025‑05‑22 and 2025‑05‑07). (nj.gov)
- NJ Child Tax Credit (age ≤5, amounts up to $1,000; updated 2025‑04‑21). (nj.gov)
- NJ Child & Dependent Care Credit (income ≤$150k; 10–50% of federal; refundable). (nj.gov)
- NJ refund timelines (e‑file ~4 weeks; paper ~12 weeks). (www16.state.nj.us)
- ANCHOR program (2025 season: amounts, incomes, ID.me, timing). (nj.gov)
- NJ Division of Taxation contact numbers and offices. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
If you need quick help right now, call VITA at 800‑906‑9887, NJ Taxation at 609‑292‑6400, or dial 2‑1‑1 for local assistance. (nj.gov)
🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey
- 📋 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
