EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in North Dakota
North Dakota EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The Real-World, No‑Fluff Guide
Last updated: September 2025
Use this as your practical playbook to get every dollar you’re eligible for. It’s written for single moms in North Dakota who need clear steps, concrete amounts, working links, and real timelines.
Quick Help Box
- Bolded items = money, deadlines, phone numbers.
- Need free tax prep? Call the IRS VITA line at 800‑906‑9887 or AARP Tax‑Aide at 888‑227‑7669 to find a free site near you. See North Dakota’s official list of free sites here: North Dakota Free Tax Preparation Sites (State Tax Department page). (tax.nd.gov)
- EITC amounts for Tax Year 2024 (returns filed in 2025): up to $7,830 with 3+ kids; income limits below. Use the IRS EITC Assistant before you file: IRS EITC Income Limits and Assistant. (eitc.irs.gov)
- 2025 EITC maximums (returns you’ll file in early 2026): up to $8,046 (3+ kids). IRS’s Taxpayer Advocate published the 2025 maximums; full 2025 income limits will post on IRS.gov closer to filing. Taxpayer Advocate: EITC at 50 – 2025 amounts. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Refund timing: If you claim EITC or Additional Child Tax Credit, the IRS can’t issue your refund before mid‑February. Earliest deposits are typically first week of March if you e‑file + direct deposit and there are no issues. Track it at IRS Where’s My Refund?. (irs.gov)
- North Dakota has no state EITC or state Child Tax Credit. You can still claim the federal credits. Details: Tax Credits for Workers & Families – North Dakota and national state‑EITC overview from NCSL. (taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org, ncsl.org)
- Property tax help for homeowners: North Dakota’s Primary Residence Credit (PRC) is increasing to a maximum of **1,600∗∗peryearunderHouseBill1176.Applicationdeadlinesandamountsdependonthetaxyear;checkthePRCpageandcall∗∗701‑328‑7988∗∗forhelp.[Governor’sannouncementof1,600** per year under House Bill 1176. Application deadlines and amounts depend on the tax year; check the PRC page and call **701‑328‑7988** for help. [Governor’s announcement of 1,600 PRC] and [ND Tax PRC information and contacts]. (governor.nd.gov, tax.nd.gov)
- Renters and seniors/disabled homeowners: Renter’s Refund up to 600∗∗(applyby∗∗May31∗∗eachyear);HomesteadCreditusesincomebandsupto∗∗600** (apply by **May 31** each year); Homestead Credit uses income bands up to **70,000; apply by March 31. Homestead Property Tax Credit & Renter’s Refund (official). Property Tax help line: 701‑328‑3127. (tax.nd.gov)
- Need a face‑to‑face IRS appointment? Call 844‑545‑5640 to book at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. IRS TAC appointment info. (irs.gov)
What You Can Claim in North Dakota (Quick Snapshot)
North Dakota doesn’t offer a state EITC, state CTC, or state CDCC. But you still have strong federal credits and several North Dakota tax relief programs that put real money back in your pocket.
Credit/Program | Who It Helps | 2024/2025 Amounts (high‑level) | Refundable? | Source |
---|---|---|---|---|
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | Working moms with low‑to‑moderate income | 2024: up to 7,830∗∗;2025:upto∗∗7,830**; 2025: up to **8,046 | Yes | IRS EITC limits; NTA 2025 max (eitc.irs.gov, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov) |
Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC) + Additional CTC | Parents with kids under 17 | 2,000∗∗perchild;upto∗∗2,000** per child; up to **1,700 refundable (2024) | Partially | IRS Tax Time Guide – 2024 ACTC $1,700 (irs.gov) |
Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCC) | Childcare so you can work | Up to 35% of expenses; cap 3,000∗∗(1kid)/∗∗3,000** (1 kid) / **6,000 (2+) | No | IRS Publication 503 (irs.gov) |
American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) | First 4 years of college | Up to 2,500∗∗perstudent;∗∗2,500** per student; **1,000 refundable | Partially | IRS AOTC (irs.gov) |
Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) | Job skills/any year of college | Up to $2,000 per return | No | IRS LLC (irs.gov) |
Saver’s Credit | Low/moderate‑income savers | Up to $1,000 (single/HdH) | No | IRS Saver’s Credit thresholds; [Pub. 571 2025 limits] (irs.gov) |
ND Primary Residence Credit (PRC) | Homeowners | Up to 1,600∗∗underHB1176;prioryears∗∗1,600** under HB 1176; prior years **500; deadline March 31 | N/A (property tax credit) | [Governor news on $1,600 PRC]; [PRC deadline notice] (governor.nd.gov, tax.nd.gov) |
ND Homestead Property Tax Credit | 65+ or permanently & totally disabled | Up to 100% taxable value reduction; income ≤ $70,000; apply by March 31 | N/A | Homestead Credit official (tax.nd.gov) |
ND Renter’s Refund | Renters (seniors/disabled) | Up to $600; apply by May 31 | Refund | Renter’s Refund official (tax.nd.gov) |
ND Family Member Care Credit | You pay care costs for an elderly/disabled relative | 20–30% of expenses; max 2,000∗∗perperson,∗∗2,000** per person, **4,000 total; income reductions over 50,000∗∗(single)/∗∗50,000** (single)/**70,000 (MFJ) | No | ND Individual Credits page (tax.nd.gov) |
ND Adoption Credit | You claimed the federal adoption credit | 10% of federal credit; limited to 50% of ND tax; 3‑year carryforward | No | ND individual income tax history – adoption credit (tax.nd.gov) |
Federal EITC: How to Qualify, How Much, and How to File
Start here. EITC is the biggest cash‑back credit for working families.
Step 1 — Check if you qualify today
- You must have earned income from work. For 2024 returns (filed in 2025), your investment income must be $11,600 or less. See the full rules and run the IRS tool: IRS EITC Income Limits + Assistant. (eitc.irs.gov)
- If you’re married but lived apart the last 6 months of the year and your child lived with you more than half the year, you may still claim EITC even if you file “married filing separately” (special separated‑spouse rule). Read the IRS rule carefully before filing: Who Qualifies for EITC (married filing separate special rule). (irs.gov)
- Your child must meet relationship, age, and residency tests (lived with you > half the year). See Publication 596 for examples of documents the IRS accepts to prove residency if asked. Publication 596 (qualifying child & separated parents rules). (irs.gov)
2024 EITC income limits and maximum credit (filed in 2025)
Qualifying children | Max credit | Income must be below (Single/HdH/QSS/MFS) | Income must be below (Married filing jointly) |
---|---|---|---|
0 | $632 | $18,591 | $25,511 |
1 | $4,213 | $49,084 | $56,004 |
2 | $6,960 | $55,768 | $62,688 |
3+ | $7,830 | $59,899 | $66,819 |
Source: IRS EITC Central (updated April 10, 2025). Investment income limit $11,600. (eitc.irs.gov)
2025 EITC maximum credit amounts (for returns you’ll file in early 2026)
Qualifying children | 2025 max credit |
---|---|
0 | $649 |
1 | $4,328 |
2 | $7,152 |
3+ | $8,046 |
Source: IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service (Feb 2025). The IRS will publish full 2025 income thresholds later in 2025. Check the IRS EITC page before you file. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
Step 2 — File the right way (to avoid delays)
- File your federal return with Schedule EIC if you claim kids. Most free sites do this automatically.
- E‑file + direct deposit = fastest refunds (typically < 21 days if no issues). But if you claim EITC/ACTC, the IRS can’t send your refund before mid‑February; many early filers see deposit first week of March. Track status using “Where’s My Refund?” daily; don’t call unless the tool tells you to. (irs.gov)
- Free help that knows EITC: call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) or 888‑227‑7669 (AARP) or use ND’s official free sites list. (irs.gov, tax.nd.gov)
Real‑world examples
- Fargo mom with two children, 28,000∗∗inwages(nootherincome):You’relikelyinthe“maximum”rangefor2‑childEITCandcouldreceiveclosetothe∗∗28,000** in wages (no other income): You’re likely in the “maximum” range for 2‑child EITC and could receive close to the **6,960 max for 2024, plus CTC (see below). Use the IRS EITC Assistant to confirm. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Minot mom with one child, $44,000 income: You may still qualify for some EITC (phase‑out range), but use the Assistant to estimate your exact amount and check if the Saver’s Credit also applies. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (EITC)
- Claiming a child who did not live with you more than half the year or who doesn’t meet age/relationship tests. Keep school/daycare/medical mail that lists your address with your child’s name. (irs.gov)
- MFS without meeting the separated‑spouse rule. If in doubt, ask a VITA site or review the IRS page. (irs.gov)
- Investment income over $11,600 (2024) disqualifies EITC. Check 1099‑DIV/INT forms before filing. (eitc.irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the IRS holds your refund (PATH Act), wait until after mid‑February; most updates hit the tool by late February. If you get an audit letter (CP75/CP75A), respond by the deadline with proof of residency/income. If you need help in a dispute, contact a Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) or the Taxpayer Advocate Service (see resources below). (irs.gov)
The Child Tax Credit (CTC) + Additional CTC
Start here if you have kids under 17.
- Credit is 2,000perqualifyingchild∗∗;upto∗∗2,000 per qualifying child**; up to **1,700 may be refundable for 2024 (ACTC). Income phaseout starts at 200,000∗∗(single/HoH)or∗∗200,000** (single/HoH) or **400,000 (MFJ). Use Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
- Kids must have SSNs valid for work issued by the return due date. (irs.gov)
- Refunds with ACTC are also held until mid‑February. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your child lacks an SSN by the due date, you cannot claim CTC for that child this year—but you may still qualify for the **Credit for Other Dependents (ODC) $500 per dependent. See IRS Tax Tip on ODC. (irs.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCC)
If you paid for childcare so you could work or look for work:
- Credit up to 35% of expenses (max 3,000∗∗for1child;∗∗3,000** for 1 child; **6,000 for 2+). Nonrefundable. Use Form 2441. Keep provider’s EIN/SSN and receipts. (irs.gov)
- Employer dependent care benefits reduce the expenses you can claim. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you lack the provider’s SSN/EIN despite reasonable efforts, you can still claim with an explanation—see Form 2441 instructions—or consider using the Saver’s Credit if you contributed to a retirement plan. (irs.gov)
Education Credits: AOTC and Lifetime Learning
Credit | Max | Refundable? | Income phase‑out (2024) | Best for | Source |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
AOTC | 2,500∗∗/student(∗∗2,500**/student (**1,000 refundable) | Partially | Single MAGI 80k–80k–90k; MFJ 160k–160k–180k | First 4 years, at least half‑time | IRS AOTC overview (irs.gov) |
LLC | $2,000/return | No | Same phase‑outs as AOTC | Any level, 1+ courses | IRS LLC overview (irs.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your income is too high for AOTC/LLC, ask your financial aid office about 1098‑T corrections or consider the Saver’s Credit if you contributed to a retirement plan. (irs.gov)
Saver’s Credit (Retirement Savings Contributions Credit)
If money is tight, even a small contribution can trigger this credit.
- Max credit 1,000∗∗(single/HoH),∗∗1,000** (single/HoH), **2,000 (MFJ). AGI thresholds for 2024 are below. Use Form 8880. (irs.gov)
Filing status | 50% rate ≤ | 20% rate | 10% rate | 0% over |
---|---|---|---|---|
Head of Household | $34,500 | 34,501–34,501–37,500 | 37,501–37,501–57,375 | $57,375 |
Single/MFS/QW | $23,000 | 23,001–23,001–25,000 | 25,001–25,001–38,250 | $38,250 |
Source: IRS Saver’s Credit page (2024 table). 2025 AGI caps increase slightly (e.g., HoH $59,250). See Pub. 571 for 2025 numbers. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If distributions or income disqualify you, re‑check next year—limits adjust annually. Consider low‑cost IRA options and set a tiny recurring contribution to stay eligible. (irs.gov)
North Dakota: Property Tax and State Credits You Can Actually Use
North Dakota does not offer a state EITC, CTC, or CDCC. But there are valuable property tax programs and a few state income‑tax credits that matter to families.
Primary Residence Credit (PRC) — homeowners
Most important action: If you own and live in your home, submit the PRC application by March 31 each year.
- For 2024–2025 property tax years, the PRC was up to $500.
- In May 2025, the Governor signed HB 1176, more than tripling PRC to up to $1,600 per year, with long‑term funding from Legacy Fund earnings. Watch the ND Tax site for implementation details by county and year, plus a one‑time special window for certain mobile/manufactured homes (July 14–Sep 1, 2025). PRC help line: 701‑328‑7988. Apply or check status: ND PRC page. (governor.nd.gov, tax.nd.gov)
Reality check:
- You must apply each year. Missing March 31 means waiting another year (exceptions exist for certain property types; mobile homes had a special 2025 window). (tax.nd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you don’t qualify or miss the deadline, ask the county about the Homestead Credit (if 65+ or permanently disabled) or look into your mortgage escrow to see if relief will reduce monthly payments once applied next cycle. (tax.nd.gov)
Homestead Property Tax Credit — seniors/disabled homeowners
- Income limit: ≤ $70,000. Up to 100% reduction of taxable value (max reductions apply). Apply to your local assessor or county tax equalization office by March 31. Details, application links, examples: [Homestead Credit official page]. (tax.nd.gov)
Renter’s Refund — seniors/disabled renters
- Refund up to $600. Application window opens the Tuesday after MLK Day; must be postmarked by May 31. Formula compares 20% of your annual rent to 4% of your annual income. File with the Office of State Tax Commissioner. Property tax program support line: 701‑328‑3127. [Renter’s Refund official page]. (tax.nd.gov)
ND Family Member Care Tax Credit
- If you pay for care for a qualifying elderly/disabled family member, you may claim 20–30% of care expenses up to 2,000∗∗perperson(∗∗2,000** per person (**4,000 max). Income reductions begin over 50,000∗∗(single)/∗∗50,000** (single)/**70,000 (MFJ). Forms: Schedule ND‑1FC and ND‑1TC. [ND credit details]. (tax.nd.gov)
ND Adoption Credit (piggybacks on federal adoption credit)
- State credit equals 10% of your federal adoption credit. Limited to 50% of your ND tax; carry forward up to 3 years. For federal amounts: 2024 max 16,810∗∗perchild;2025max∗∗16,810** per child; 2025 max **17,280. [ND adoption credit note] and [IRS 2024/2025 adoption limits]. (tax.nd.gov, irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your ND tax is low and the adoption credit is limited, plan to use the 3‑year carryforward. Keep every adoption receipt, decree, and your federal Form 8839 with your ND return copy. (irs.gov)
Timelines You Can Count On
- Federal e‑file + direct deposit: usually < 21 days. Longer if errors, identity checks, or EITC/ACTC hold applies. Use Where’s My Refund tool once daily. (irs.gov)
- EITC/ACTC refunds: held until mid‑February by law; many hit accounts in the first week of March if filed early and accurate. (irs.gov)
- ND PRC application: due March 31 annually (watch for updated guidance as the program scales to $1,600). (tax.nd.gov)
- ND Homestead Credit: apply by March 31. ND Renter’s Refund: file by May 31 each year. (tax.nd.gov)
How to Apply (Fast)
- Gather documents (see checklist below).
- Book free help if needed: 800‑906‑9887 (VITA), 888‑227‑7669 (AARP), or check the ND Tax “Free Tax Preparation Sites” list and the IRS VITA Locator. (irs.gov, tax.nd.gov)
- E‑file both federal and ND in one shot (ND participates in the IRS Federal/State e‑file program). ND Individual – Filing & Free Filing. (tax.nd.gov)
- Track refunds: Federal at [Where’s My Refund?]; North Dakota at [ND Where’s My Refund] (you’ll need SSN, tax year, filing status, expected amount). (irs.gov, tax.nd.gov)
- Need in‑person IRS help? Call 844‑545‑5640 to book a Taxpayer Assistance Center appointment. (irs.gov)
Application Checklist (bring this to your tax appointment)
- Photo ID and SSNs/ITINs for you and kids (SSNs required for CTC/EITC kids; see IRS rules).
- W‑2s, 1099s (work, unemployment, interest/dividends), and any 1095‑A (Marketplace health coverage).
- Childcare provider info (name, address, SSN/EIN), receipts, and total paid (for CDCC). (irs.gov)
- School/daycare/medical records or lease with your and your child’s name/address to prove residency for EITC if the IRS asks later. (irs.gov)
- For PRC/Homestead/Renter’s Refund: property tax statement, lease, proof of rent paid, and household income info.
- For adoption credit: adoption decree, placement papers, and expense receipts; federal Form 8839. (irs.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- EITC 2024 max: 7,830∗∗(3+kids),∗∗7,830** (3+ kids), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (0). Income caps in table above. Investment income limit $11,600. (eitc.irs.gov)
- EITC 2025 max: 8,046∗∗(3+),∗∗8,046** (3+), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (0). Full 2025 income limits will post on IRS.gov. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- CTC 2024: 2,000∗∗perchild;upto∗∗2,000** per child; up to **1,700 refundable. (irs.gov)
- CDCC: up to 35% of 3,000∗∗/∗∗3,000**/**6,000 eligible expenses. (irs.gov)
- AOTC: 2,500∗∗(upto∗∗2,500** (up to **1,000 refundable). LLC: $2,000 (nonrefundable). (irs.gov)
- PRC (homeowners): up to 1,600∗∗(expandingfrom∗∗1,600** (expanding from **500); apply by March 31. (governor.nd.gov, tax.nd.gov)
- Homestead/Renter’s Refund: income cap 70,000∗∗(Homestead);Renter’sRefundupto∗∗70,000** (Homestead); Renter’s Refund up to **600; due May 31. (tax.nd.gov)
Free Filing and In‑Person Help in North Dakota
- State list of free prep sites (AARP + IRS): North Dakota Free Tax Preparation Sites. (tax.nd.gov)
- IRS VITA Locator & info: 800‑906‑9887 and IRS VITA/TCE. (irs.gov)
- AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669 and AARP Tax‑Aide. See current North Dakota appointment numbers (e.g., 701‑354‑5273 Bismarck; 701‑335‑6509 Fargo; 701‑787‑1661 Grand Forks; 701‑409‑0212 Minot) on AARP ND updates. (press.aarp.org, states.aarp.org, local.aarp.org)
- Book an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center appointment: 844‑545‑5640. (irs.gov)
- ND Tax Department contacts: Individual Income Tax 701‑328‑1247; Property Tax 701‑328‑3127; PRC 701‑328‑7988; General 877‑328‑7088. ND Tax Contact Us. (tax.nd.gov)
Diverse Communities: Practical Notes and Help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: If your child lacks an SSN (for example, recent adoption or name/ID change in process), you can’t claim CTC for that child yet; consider ODC $500 in the interim and fix next year once the SSN is issued. Free tax prep sites can help with documentation. (irs.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: EITC applies if you have earned income; certain disability payments may not count as earned income. Review Publication 596 examples and ask VITA to double‑check. For caregiving costs, see the ND Family Member Care Credit (up to 2,000∗∗/∗∗2,000**/**4,000). (irs.gov, tax.nd.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: If you’re active‑duty and have nontaxable combat pay, you can elect to include it in earned income to potentially increase EITC—run it both ways. Property tax relief for disabled veterans also exists at the county level; call ND Property Tax 701‑328‑3127 to discuss. (irs.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You and each child claimed for EITC/CTC need valid SSNs by the due date (CTC requires child SSNs). If you need ITIN services, some IRS TACs review documents by appointment (844‑545‑5640). Use trained VITA sites for accurate returns. (irs.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: Many tribal and rural communities host seasonal VITA sites; call 800‑906‑9887 or use the IRS VITA Locator to confirm dates and languages. (irs.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask VITA sites about drop‑off/virtual options. Libraries often provide printing/scanning and some host AARP Tax‑Aide (see local city library pages such as Bismarck’s). (bismarcklibrary.org)
- Single fathers: The same credits and rules apply if the child lived with you more than half the year and you meet income limits. Tiebreaker rules in Publication 596 decide who can claim. (irs.gov)
- Language access: IRS provides professional interpreters at TACs; TTY/TDD 800‑829‑4059 and ND Tax TTY 800‑366‑6888 (ask for 701‑328‑7088) support hearing‑impaired callers. (irs.gov, tax.nd.gov)
Region‑by‑Region: Quick Pointers
- Bismarck/Mandan: AARP Tax‑Aide appointments (seasonal) commonly route through local numbers like 701‑354‑5273; check current AARP ND post. (states.aarp.org)
- Fargo/Moorhead, Grand Forks/East Grand Forks, Minot, Devils Lake: Seasonal AARP lines include 701‑335‑6509, 701‑787‑1661, 701‑409‑0212; confirm dates at AARP ND’s page each January. VITA sites show in the IRS locator. (states.aarp.org, local.aarp.org)
- Statewide: Dial 211 for local help if you need a ride to your tax appointment or assistance printing documents; ask about volunteer transport or library services.
Common Mistakes to Avoid (Top 10)
- Missing the March 31 PRC deadline or the May 31 Renter’s Refund deadline. Set calendar alerts now. (tax.nd.gov)
- Filing EITC without Schedule EIC when claiming kids.
- Not attaching Form 1095‑A reconciliation (Form 8962) if you had Marketplace health coverage—this delays refunds. (irs.gov)
- Using the wrong filing status (Head of Household vs. Single). Ask VITA to verify.
- Claiming a child who didn’t live with you more than half the year.
- Overlooking the Saver’s Credit when you contribute even a small amount to a 401(k)/IRA. (irs.gov)
- Forgetting to bring childcare provider EIN/SSN for CDCC. (irs.gov)
- Assuming North Dakota has a state EITC/CTC—your extra dollars come from federal credits plus ND property relief instead. (taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org, ncsl.org)
- Skipping ND’s Family Member Care or Adoption credit even if your ND tax is small (carryforwards may help). (tax.nd.gov)
- Paying for tax prep you could get free through VITA/AARP.
If You Hit a Wall: Plan B Options
- Free, trained help: 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) and 888‑227‑7669 (AARP). (irs.gov, press.aarp.org)
- Book the IRS in person: 844‑545‑5640. (irs.gov)
- Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinics (for audits, letters, collections): find one via IRS LITC list/map. Note: The IRS reports no LITC currently based in ND; nearby or remote clinics may help. Check Publication 4134 for current options. (irs.gov)
- Legal Services of North Dakota (civil legal help; may advise on benefits/property tax issues): 800‑634‑5263 (under 60), 866‑621‑9886 (60+). LSND – Get Help. (lsnd.org)
Frequently Asked Questions (North Dakota‑specific)
- Does North Dakota have its own EITC?
No. ND currently has no state EITC. Claim the federal EITC and then look at ND’s property tax programs (PRC/Homestead/Renter’s Refund). (taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org) - What’s the EITC deadline?
File by the federal deadline (usually mid‑April). If you’re due a refund, there’s no penalty for filing late, but you can’t get PATH‑held refunds until mid‑February and you must file within three years to claim refunds. See IRS refund timing. (irs.gov) - Can I get EITC if I’m separated and “married filing separately”?
Possibly—if you lived apart the last 6 months and your child lived with you over half the year. Read the IRS separated‑spouse rule. (irs.gov) - How long will my EITC refund take?
E‑file + direct deposit: typically less than 21 days, but EITC/ACTC refunds are held until mid‑February. Track at Where’s My Refund. (irs.gov) - What proof will the IRS want if they question my EITC?
School/daycare/medical letters that show your address with your child’s name and dates in the tax year. Keep copies. (irs.gov) - I own my home. How do I get the PRC?
Apply online/by paper by March 31 each year. With HB 1176, the PRC max rises to $1,600 (watch the state site for rollout timing). PRC help: 701‑328‑7988. (governor.nd.gov, tax.nd.gov) - I rent. Can I get help from the state?
If you’re a senior or permanently and totally disabled, yes—Renter’s Refund up to $600 (due May 31). Formula compares 20% of your rent to 4% of your income. (tax.nd.gov) - Is there a tax credit if I’m paying to care for my parent?
Yes, the ND Family Member Care Credit is 20–30% of eligible costs, up to 2,000∗∗perperson(∗∗2,000** per person (**4,000 max), subject to income thresholds. (tax.nd.gov) - Adoption?
North Dakota allows 10% of the federal adoption credit, limited to 50% of ND tax with a 3‑year carryforward. 2024 federal max 16,810∗∗;2025∗∗16,810**; 2025 **17,280. (tax.nd.gov, irs.gov) - I need to talk to someone at the IRS or ND Tax.
- IRS TAC appointment line: 844‑545‑5640.
- ND Tax: Individual Income Tax 701‑328‑1247; Property Tax 701‑328‑3127; PRC 701‑328‑7988; Toll free 877‑328‑7088. (irs.gov, tax.nd.gov)
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- EITC/ACTC fraud and errors slow refunds. Be ready to prove your child lived with you more than half the year. Keep records until at least three years after filing. (irs.gov)
- If you received Marketplace health insurance (Form 1095‑A), you must reconcile it on Form 8962 or your refund will be delayed. (irs.gov)
- ND property credits require annual applications and strict deadlines. Get your PRC/Homestead/Renter’s Refund in early—don’t wait until the last week of March/May. (tax.nd.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from North Dakota 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 change. Always confirm amounts and requirements with the IRS and the North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner before you apply or file.
- Security note for website owners: Keep core CMS/plugins updated, enforce HTTPS, enable a WAF, and validate all outbound links to prevent injection/hijack.
Key official sources used in this guide include:
- IRS EITC 2024 limits and press materials (updated April/Feb 2025). (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- IRS refund timing and PATH Act hold details. (irs.gov)
- ND Tax: PRC, Homestead, Renter’s Refund, credit contacts and deadlines; Governor’s HB 1176 announcement of $1,600 PRC. (tax.nd.gov, governor.nd.gov)
- ND individual credits (Family Member Care; adoption credit reference). (tax.nd.gov)
- Federal CTC/ACTC, AOTC/LLC, CDCC, Saver’s Credit official pages. (irs.gov)
- 2025 EITC maximums via IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
If a link doesn’t open, navigate directly from IRS.gov or tax.nd.gov to the named page.
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- 📋 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