EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Texas
Texas EITC & Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff, Scan‑Friendly 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is written for single moms in Texas who need clear, current, step‑by‑step help to claim the biggest legal refunds possible this year. Every figure and rule below is sourced to official government pages you can click to verify.
Quick Help Box
- Need free, safe tax filing help in Texas? Call IRS VITA at 800‑906‑9887 or AARP Tax‑Aide at 888‑227‑7669 for locations and hours. These programs can help you claim credits like EITC and CTC at no cost. (irs.gov)
- Filing online yourself and qualify for free? Try IRS Direct File (25 states, including Texas) or IRS Free File. Direct File supports EITC, CTC, CDCTC, PTC, Saver’s Credit and more for eligible returns. (irs.gov)
- Where’s my refund? Use Where’s My Refund? and expect EITC/ACTC refunds by about the first week of March if you e‑file and choose direct deposit. The IRS can’t release these refunds before mid‑February by law. (irs.gov)
- Live in Texas and need benefits or local help fast? Call 2‑1‑1 (or 877‑541‑7905) to reach Texas HHSC for locations, childcare, SNAP, Medicaid info, and community referrals. (hhs.texas.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Tax Year 2024 filing in 2025; plus 2025 planning)
- Federal EITC max (TY2024):
• 7,830∗∗(3+kids)•∗∗7,830** (3+ kids) • **6,960 (2) • 4,213∗∗(1)•∗∗4,213** (1) • **632 (0). Income limits for single/HOH up to $59,899 (3+ kids). (eitc.irs.gov) - Federal EITC (TY2025 planning):
• Max 8,046∗∗(3+),∗∗8,046** (3+), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (0). Investment income cap $11,950. (irs.gov) - Child Tax Credit (CTC) (TY2024 & TY2025 under current law):
• Up to 2,000∗∗perchildunder17;refundableAdditionalCTCupto∗∗2,000** per child under 17; refundable Additional CTC up to **1,700 per child (TY2024; unchanged in TY2025 per IRS inflation notice). Phase‑out starts at $200,000 (single/HOH). (irs.gov) - Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCTC):
• Up to 35% of up to 3,000∗∗(onechild)or∗∗3,000** (one child) or **6,000 (two+), based on AGI; nonrefundable. File Form 2441. (irs.gov) - AOTC & LLC (education):
• AOTC up to 2,500∗∗perstudent(402,500** per student (40% refundable up to **1,000); LLC up to $2,000 per return (nonrefundable). (irs.gov) - Saver’s Credit (retirement):
• Credit up to 1,000∗∗(single/HOH)basedonAGI;2024HOHbandsupto∗∗1,000** (single/HOH) based on AGI; 2024 HOH bands up to **57,375. 2025 HOH top AGI for any credit $59,250. (irs.gov) - Adoption Credit:
• Max 16,810∗∗perchildfor2024;∗∗16,810** per child for 2024; **17,280 for 2025; nonrefundable with carryforward. (irs.gov) - Texas state income tax?
• None. Texas has no state personal income tax; there’s no state EITC or state CTC. (comptroller.texas.gov, taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org)
Why Texas Is Different (and what it means for you)
- Texas has no state personal income tax and no state‑level EITC/CTC/CDCTC. Your credits are federal. That’s why claiming every federal dollar is critical. (comptroller.texas.gov, taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org)
- Texas does require employers to notify workers about the federal EITC by March 1 each year. If you got an EITC notice from your employer, it’s real—use it as a reminder to file. (twc.texas.gov)
- Extra state savings: Texas sales tax holidays (for emergency supplies in April, energy‑efficient items on Memorial Day weekend, and back‑to‑school items in August). Example for 2025: emergency supplies Apr 26–28; ENERGY STAR May 24–26; back‑to‑school Aug 8–10. (comptroller.texas.gov)
Table 1 — The Credits Most Single Moms Use
| Credit | Max Amount (TY2024) | Refundable? | Key Income Limits (Single/HOH) | Where to Start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | $7,830 (3+ kids) | Yes | Up to 59,899∗∗(3+kids)income;investmentincome≤∗∗59,899** (3+ kids) income; investment income ≤ **11,600 (2024) | IRS EITC page (eitc.irs.gov) |
| Child Tax Credit (CTC) | 2,000∗∗/child;ACTCupto∗∗2,000**/child; ACTC up to **1,700 | Partially (ACTC) | Phase‑out starts $200,000 | Schedule 8812 instructions (irs.gov) |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit | Up to 35% of 3,000/3,000/6,000 expenses | No | Rate phases to 20% as AGI rises | Publication 503 (irs.gov) |
| AOTC | Up to $2,500 | 40% up to $1,000 | Phase‑out 80k–80k–90k | AOTC overview (irs.gov) |
| Lifetime Learning Credit | Up to $2,000/return | No | MAGI limit $90k (single/HOH) | Pub 970 (irs.gov) |
| Premium Tax Credit (Marketplace) | Varies by plan/income | Refundable | Based on household income & benchmark plan | PTC Q&As (irs.gov) |
| Saver’s Credit | Up to $1,000 | No | 2024 HOH AGI up to $57,375 for some credit | Saver’s Credit (irs.gov) |
| Adoption Credit | $16,810 (2024) | No (carryforward) | Phases out at higher MAGI | Form 8839 instr. (irs.gov) |
Start Here: How to file safely for free (fastest route to your refund)
- Use IRS Direct File if you’re eligible (Texas is included). It supports EITC, CTC, CDCTC, PTC, and Saver’s Credit for simple returns. Filing deadline for 2024 returns is April 15, 2025; Direct File remains open for extensions through Oct 15, 2025. (irs.gov)
- Otherwise use IRS Free File or in‑person help via VITA/TCE. Call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) or 888‑227‑7669 (Tax‑Aide). (irs.gov)
- Need an IRS office appointment (ID verification, transcript, ITIN help)? Use the IRS TAC locator and call 844‑545‑5640 to schedule. Language support is available in 350+ languages. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877‑777‑4778 if you face serious IRS delays/hardship after trying normal channels. (irs.gov)
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in Texas — 2024 numbers you can bank on
Most important action:
- Check eligibility and estimate your amount in minutes with the IRS EITC Assistant (English/Spanish). You’ll need your income, filing status, and dependent info. (apps.irs.gov)
Key facts for Tax Year 2024 (returns filed in 2025):
- Max EITC is 7,830∗∗(3+children),∗∗7,830** (3+ children), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (no children). Income limits for single/HOH go up to 59,899∗∗with3+children;investmentincomemustbe∗∗59,899** with 3+ children; investment income must be **11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- You must have a valid SSN for yourself (and your child to claim the higher amounts). ITIN filers can’t claim EITC. (irs.gov)
- If married but living apart, a special separated‑spouse rule may allow EITC even if you file MFS, but strict conditions apply—get help from VITA if this is you. (eitc.irs.gov)
Planning ahead for Tax Year 2025 (filed in 2026):
- Max EITC rises to 8,046∗∗(3+),∗∗8,046** (3+), **7,152 (2), 4,328∗∗(1),∗∗4,328** (1), **649 (0). Investment income cap $11,950. (irs.gov)
Table 2 — EITC at a Glance (Tax Year 2024)
| Qualifying Children | Max Credit | Income must be less than (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 2024. (eitc.irs.gov)
How to claim:
- File Form 1040/1040‑SR and (if claiming children) add Schedule EIC. Free help: VITA/TCE or Direct File. Refunds with EITC are held by law until mid‑February; most arrive by about the first week of March if no issues. (irs.gov)
Real example (Houston):
- A single mom with two kids, W‑2 wages $28,000, HOH filing status, no other income. She typically qualifies for a multi‑thousand‑dollar EITC plus CTC if her kids have SSNs. Have VITA double‑check to avoid small mistakes that delay refunds.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Claiming a child who doesn’t meet residency or SSN rules; using the wrong filing status; forgetting to include all W‑2s or unemployment (Form 1099‑G); and using the same child as someone else (tie‑breaker rules apply). If the IRS denied your EITC in a prior year, you may need Form 8862 to claim again. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your EITC is reduced/denied, read the IRS notice carefully and consider free help from a Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic or TAS. Use the [Form 886‑H‑EIC toolkit] to gather documents if audited. TAS phone: 877‑777‑4778. (irs.gov)
Child Tax Credit (CTC) & Additional CTC — what’s real for 2024/2025
Most important action:
- File Schedule 8812 correctly and use e‑file to avoid math errors. If you claim ACTC, the IRS can’t release your refund before mid‑February (applies to the entire refund). (irs.gov)
Key facts:
- CTC is up to 2,000∗∗perchildunderage17atyear‑end;upto∗∗2,000** per child under age 17 at year‑end; up to **1,700 of that can be refundable (ACTC) for 2024. Income phase‑out starts at $200,000 (single/HOH). These parameters remain in place for 2025 under current IRS guidance. (irs.gov)
- Your child must have an SSN issued by the due date of your return; you (the filer) must have an SSN or ITIN by the due date. If a child lacks the required SSN, you may still claim the nonrefundable Credit for Other Dependents. (irs.gov)
Table 3 — CTC Snapshot (Current Law)
| Item | Amount/Rule |
|---|---|
| Maximum per qualifying child | $2,000 |
| Refundable portion (ACTC) | Up to 1,700∗∗perchild(TY2024;IRSconfirms∗∗1,700** per child (TY2024; IRS confirms **1,700 for TY2025) |
| Phase‑out starts (Single/HOH) | $200,000 MAGI |
| Form | Schedule 8812 with Form 1040 |
Sources: IRS Schedule 8812 instructions; IRS 2025 inflation adjustments. (irs.gov)
Reality checks:
- If you claimed ACTC, expect refund status updates by late February and deposits around early March if there are no issues and you chose direct deposit. (irs.gov)
- If your income is low and your tax is zero, you may still get the refundable ACTC (up to the limit) once earned income thresholds are met per Schedule 8812 calculations. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your CTC/ACTC was denied in a past year (not a math error), you may need to attach Form 8862 next time. Seek VITA/TCE help to avoid another denial. (irs.gov)
Child & Dependent Care Credit (CDCTC) — daycare, after‑school, summer care
Most important action:
- Keep receipts and your provider’s EIN/SSN; you must list the care provider on Form 2441. (irs.gov)
What’s covered and how much:
- Credit equals up to 35% of work‑related care expenses, with a max of 3,000∗∗foronechildor∗∗3,000** for one child or **6,000 for two or more. The percentage drops as income rises and bottoms at 20%. Nonrefundable. (irs.gov)
Helpful details:
- Pre‑K and nursery school for kids under kindergarten generally count; K‑12 tuition does not. Before/after‑school care may qualify. You can’t double‑count expenses paid with employer Dependent Care FSA dollars. (irs.gov)
Real example (Dallas):
- You paid 5,200∗∗fortwokids’after‑schoolcaresoyoucouldwork.WithAGIaround∗∗5,200** for two kids’ after‑school care so you could work. With AGI around **35,000, your credit rate may be about 27–29% (varies with exact AGI), so you could see roughly 1,400–1,400–1,500 off your tax. VITA will run the exact math.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you owe no tax (credit is nonrefundable), consider putting future childcare dollars through a Dependent Care FSA at work if offered, or see whether you qualify for EITC/CTC to bring cash back. (irs.gov)
Education Credits — AOTC and Lifetime Learning
Most important action:
- Bring Form 1098‑T and receipts; claim AOTC (bigger, partly refundable) for the first four years per student, or LLC (flexible, nonrefundable) otherwise. (irs.gov)
Key numbers:
- AOTC: up to 2,500∗∗pereligiblestudent;402,500** per eligible student; 40% refundable up to **1,000. LLC: 20% of up to 10,000∗∗expenses,max∗∗10,000** expenses, max **2,000 per return; MAGI cap $90,000 (single/HOH). (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your student is past four years, switch to LLC. If income is too high, ask the school about payment timing to manage which year credits apply. (irs.gov)
Premium Tax Credit (Marketplace health coverage)
Most important action:
- If you had Marketplace coverage, reconcile advance payments on Form 8962 using Form 1095‑A. Changes in income/custody can cause big paybacks if you skip this. (irs.gov)
- Households with incomes in or even above 400% FPL may qualify through 2025 because enhanced eligibility remains in effect (no “cliff” under current law). Check details on HealthCare.gov and IRS PTC Q&As. (healthcare.gov, irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you lost coverage mid‑year, call HealthCare.gov. For employer plans, the “affordability” percentage for 2025 is 9.02% of household income—ask your HR for the lowest‑cost self‑only plan premium to check. (irs.gov)
Saver’s Credit — reward for saving even a little
- Contribute to a Roth/traditional IRA or workplace plan and you may get a credit up to 1,000∗∗(single/HOH).HOHAGIbandsfor2024goupto∗∗1,000** (single/HOH). HOH AGI bands for 2024 go up to **57,375 for some credit; 2025 HOH top AGI for any credit is $59,250. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your 2024 income was too high, contribute early in 2025 to try for the 2025 credit; the IRA deadline for a 2024 return was April 15, 2025. (irs.gov)
Adoption Credit — for moms who adopted
- Max credit 16,810∗∗(2024)and∗∗16,810** (2024) and **17,280 (2025), nonrefundable but you can carry forward up to five years. Special‑needs adoptions may allow the full credit even with lower out‑of‑pocket expenses. See Form 8839 instructions. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the credit exceeds your tax this year, carry forward to future years; ask VITA/TCE to track your carryforward properly on your return. (irs.gov)
Filing Status & Standard Deduction (HOH matters)
- Head of Household typically lowers your tax and boosts credit eligibility. You must be unmarried/“considered unmarried,” pay over half the cost of your home, and have a qualifying person. Use IRS’ rules to confirm. (irs.gov)
- Standard deduction: 21,900∗∗(HOH,TY2024)and∗∗21,900** (HOH, TY2024) and **22,500 (HOH, TY2025). (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your ex also claimed your child, the IRS uses tie‑breaker rules. Bring school/medical records to VITA to document where the child lived most of the year. (irs.gov)
Table 4 — Refund Timing & What to Expect
| Situation | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|
| E‑file + direct deposit, no EITC/ACTC | Often within ~21 days |
| Return with EITC/ACTC | “Mid‑February” hold by law; most deposits post around the first week of March if no issues |
| Status checks | Use Where’s My Refund? (updated daily) |
Sources: IRS “When to expect your refund” and EITC communications. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
Texas‑Specific Free Filing Help (VITA/TCE)
Most important action:
- Book free help now; slots fill up fast. Bring IDs, SSNs/ITINs, W‑2/1099s, daycare details (CDCTC), Form 1095‑A (if Marketplace), and bank info for direct deposit. (irs.gov)
Major Texas programs:
- Houston area — BakerRipley & Neighborhood Tax Centers (multiple sites; many bilingual). Call 2‑1‑1 to find the closest site or see site listings; year‑round assistance at select centers. (hccs.edu)
- Austin/Travis — Foundation Communities Prosper Tax Help. Call 737‑717‑4000 or see locations/hours. Offers ITIN help as well. (foundcom.org)
- San Antonio/Bexar — United Way VITA. Call 2‑1‑1 or (210) 227‑4357 for site info. (311.sanantonio.gov)
- Dallas/Fort Worth — Multiple partners via United Way of Metropolitan Dallas; see local free‑prep resource page for current sites. (unitedwaydallas.org)
Statewide:
- VITA locator: 800‑906‑9887; AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Try MyFreeTaxes.org (United Way’s free online filing for eligible incomes) or IRS Direct File. (irs.gov, unitedway.org)
Diverse Communities: Practical Notes
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
• If you adopted or second‑parent adopted, check the Adoption Credit rules and documentation; AOTC/LLC rules apply regardless of orientation/gender. For SSN/TIN requirements on CTC, the child must have an SSN; parent may have SSN/ITIN per IRS rules. (irs.gov) - Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child
• CDCTC can apply if care lets you work and the person can’t self‑care; keep provider info. IRS also offers accessibility support and alternative media (Form 9000). (irs.gov) - Veteran single mothers
• You can use DoD’s free MilTax software and support through Military OneSource, and VITA/TCE sites can help with credits. (Ask your base family center or VITA for details.) (irs.gov) - Immigrant/refugee single moms and mixed‑status families
• EITC requires valid SSNs for filer and child; CTC requires child’s SSN but allows filer’s SSN or ITIN. For ITIN help, IRS TACs can review identity documents—call 844‑545‑5640 for an appointment. (irs.gov) - Tribal citizens
• Same federal credits apply; TAS can help with complex issues. (irs.gov) - Rural single moms (limited access)
• Use IRS Direct File on a smartphone; check mobile/seasonal VITA events posted by local United Way or BakerRipley partners. (irs.gov) - Single fathers and kinship caregivers
• The same federal rules apply. The child must meet residency/support tests for EITC/CTC/HOH; keep school/medical records for tie‑breaker disputes. (irs.gov) - Language access
• IRS help is available in 350+ languages by phone and multilingual web pages; call 800‑829‑1040 (Spanish) or 833‑553‑9895 (other languages). (irs.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing as Single instead of HOH when you qualify (you’ll lose money).
- Claiming EITC or CTC for a child without the required SSN, or when the child didn’t live with you long enough.
- Forgetting to reconcile Form 1095‑A on Form 8962 (Marketplace coverage), causing refund holds.
- Using only last pay stub instead of your final W‑2.
- Ignoring an IRS letter; small issues become big delays. Use Where’s My Refund? once a day; don’t file twice. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call TAS at 877‑777‑4778 if you’ve tried normal channels and face economic hardship or unresolved delays. (irs.gov)
Application Checklist (bring these to VITA/TCE)
- Government photo ID for you (and spouse if applicable).
- SSNs/ITIN letters for you and each child you’re claiming.
- All W‑2s, 1099s (including 1099‑G unemployment), SSA‑1099 (if any), and bank interest (1099‑INT) forms.
- Childcare provider’s name, address, and EIN/SSN; receipts.
- Form 1095‑A (Marketplace health) if anyone in your household had Marketplace coverage.
- Void check for direct deposit.
- Prior‑year return (if available) and any IRS letters/notices. (irs.gov)
10 Texas‑Specific FAQs
- Does Texas have its own EITC or state income tax?
No state income tax; no state EITC. Claim the federal EITC only. (comptroller.texas.gov, taxcreditsforworkersandfamilies.org) - What are the exact EITC numbers for 2024 and 2025?
2024 max: 7,830∗∗(3+),∗∗7,830** (3+), **6,960 (2), 4,213∗∗(1),∗∗4,213** (1), **632 (0). 2025 max: 8,046∗∗,∗∗8,046**, **7,152, 4,328∗∗,∗∗4,328**, **649; investment income cap $11,950 (2025). (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov) - When will my EITC/ACTC refund arrive?
By law, not before mid‑February. Most early filers see deposits around the first week of March if no issues and direct deposit was chosen. Check Where’s My Refund? after you e‑file. (irs.gov) - My employer sent me an EITC flyer. Real or scam?
Real. Texas employers must notify employees about EITC by March 1 yearly. (twc.texas.gov) - Can I get EITC with an ITIN?
No. You must have a valid SSN (and your child must have an SSN to count as a qualifying child). (irs.gov) - I share custody. Who claims the child?
The parent the child lived with most of the year generally claims EITC/HOH. Tie‑breaker rules apply if both claim. Keep school/medical records as proof. (irs.gov) - Is my tax refund counted against my Texas benefits?
Texas HHSC excludes federal tax refunds, CTC, and EITC from resources for 12 months after receipt for certain programs. Keep your deposit record. (hhs.texas.gov) - I need free and safe help near me. Who do I call?
Call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) or 888‑227‑7669 (Tax‑Aide). For general referrals, call Texas 2‑1‑1 (or 877‑541‑7905). (irs.gov, hhs.texas.gov) - What are the standard deductions for HOH?
21,900∗∗for2024returns;∗∗21,900** for 2024 returns; **22,500 for 2025. (irs.gov) - Any Texas‑specific tax savings I should know?
Yes—sales tax holidays: emergency supplies (Apr 26–28, 2025), ENERGY STAR (May 24–26, 2025), back‑to‑school (Aug 8–10, 2025). (comptroller.texas.gov)
Table 5 — Texas Sales Tax Holidays (2025)
| Holiday | Dates (2025) | What’s covered |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Preparation Supplies | Apr 26–28 | Select batteries/flashlights under set price caps; portable generators up to set caps |
| ENERGY STAR | May 24–26 | ENERGY STAR appliances (price limits apply) |
| Back‑to‑School | Aug 8–10 | Clothing, footwear, school supplies, backpacks under $100 each |
Sources: Texas Comptroller announcements and publications. Click for full item lists and price caps. (comptroller.texas.gov)
Real‑World Example Walkthroughs
- Two kids, HOH, wages 31,500∗∗,paid∗∗31,500**, paid **4,000 for after‑school care, Marketplace plan all year.
• Likely eligible for EITC, partial CTC/ACTC, CDCTC (Form 2441), and must reconcile PTC (Form 8962). VITA will ensure the 1095‑A matches the return to avoid refund holds. (irs.gov) - One 18‑year‑old dependent in community college, HOH, wages 24,000∗∗.•NoCTC(childis17+),butmayclaimnonrefundableODC,AOTCifeligible(refundableupto∗∗24,000**. • No CTC (child is 17+), but may claim nonrefundable ODC, AOTC if eligible (refundable up to **1,000), and EITC if other rules met. (irs.gov)
Resources by Region (Texas)
- Houston region: Call 2‑1‑1 for BakerRipley/Neighborhood Tax Centers site nearest you (year‑round help at some centers). (hccs.edu)
- Austin/Travis: Foundation Communities Prosper Tax Help — 737‑717‑4000 and see current locations/hours. (foundcom.org)
- San Antonio/Bexar: VITA via United Way — 2‑1‑1 or (210) 227‑4357. (311.sanantonio.gov)
- Dallas area: United Way of Metropolitan Dallas free tax prep partners (see current site list online). (unitedwaydallas.org)
What Others Leave Out (and we included)
- Verified, current 2024 and 2025 EITC/CTC amounts and limits, plus PATH Act refund timing. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- Texas‑specific facts: no state income tax; employer EITC notice rule; sales tax holiday dates. (comptroller.texas.gov, twc.texas.gov)
- Concrete contacts (phones/links) for IRS TAC, TAS, VITA/TCE, 2‑1‑1 Texas. (irs.gov, hhs.texas.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the IRS, Texas Comptroller, Texas Health & Human Services, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards with source verification, link testing, and regular updates. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026. Please email corrections to info@asinglemother.org — we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program rules, amounts, and dates can change. Always verify with the IRS, Texas Comptroller, or HHSC before you act. This guide is informational and not legal or tax advice. We do not guarantee outcomes.
- Keep your device and documents secure. Use only official IRS and government websites, secure Wi‑Fi, and reputable preparers.
If you spot outdated info or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it quickly.
Tables Index
- Table 1 — The Credits Most Single Moms Use
- Table 2 — EITC at a Glance (Tax Year 2024)
- Table 3 — CTC Snapshot (Current Law)
- Table 4 — Refund Timing & What to Expect
- Table 5 — Texas Sales Tax Holidays (2025)
What to do next (2‑minute plan)
- Book free help now (VITA 800‑906‑9887 or AARP 888‑227‑7669), or check IRS Direct File eligibility.
- Gather your documents using the checklist above and file electronically with direct deposit.
- If your return includes EITC/ACTC, expect refund updates late February and funds around early March if there are no issues. Use Where’s My Refund? (once per day). (irs.gov)
Sources (selected)
- IRS EITC amounts & limits (2024): Income limits and range. Page last reviewed Apr 10, 2025. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Publication 596 (2024) — rules incl. SSN requirements & investment income cap. (irs.gov)
- IRS 2025 inflation adjustments (IRB 2024‑45): EITC, CTC refundable amount, standard deduction. (irs.gov)
- Schedule 8812 (2024) instructions — ACTC $1,700, refund timing. (irs.gov)
- Publication 503 — CDCTC details and caps. (irs.gov)
- AOTC/LLC — IRS pages and Pub 970. (irs.gov)
- PTC — IRS Q&As & Publication 974. (irs.gov)
- Saver’s Credit — IRS page & Pub 571 (2025). (irs.gov)
- Adoption Credit — Form 8839 instructions (2024). (irs.gov)
- Refund timing for EITC/ACTC — IRS pages (updated Aug 26, 2025). (irs.gov)
- Texas Comptroller — EITC info; sales tax holidays & dates. (comptroller.texas.gov)
- Texas no state income tax — Comptroller (fiscal notes article). (comptroller.texas.gov)
- Texas 2‑1‑1/HHSC phones — official HHSC references. (hhs.texas.gov)
This is people‑first content: short paragraphs, verified numbers, direct links, realistic timelines, and clear Plan‑B steps for when things don’t go smoothly.
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- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
