Washington EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff, Do‑This‑Now Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gets you the largest legal refund you’re owed under Washington’s Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) and federal tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit (CTC), Child and Dependent Care Credit, education credits, and the health insurance Premium Tax Credit. Every section starts with the one action to take first, spells out eligibility, dollar amounts, documents, timelines, and gives a Plan B if you hit a wall.

Note: Washington has no state income tax. Your state refund here is the Working Families Tax Credit, paid by the Washington Department of Revenue (DOR). (dor.wa.gov)

Quick Help Box (read this first)

• Apply for the Washington Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) as soon as you file your federal return. You can get up to $1,290 for tax year 2024 and you can still apply for 2023 and 2022. Apply online, by paper, or at a DOR office. WFTC helpline: 360‑763‑7300 (M–F, 8–5 PT; TTY 711). (dor.wa.gov)
• Claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) if you worked in 2024 and meet income limits. Maximum EITC is $7,830 with three or more kids (2024 tax year). Refunds with EITC/ACTC are held until late February; most arrive by the first week of March if no issues. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• Claim the Child Tax Credit (CTC): up to $2,000\ast \ast perchildunder17;upto\ast \ast$1,700 per child can be refundable for 2024. Use Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
• Need free, in‑person filing help? Call IRS VITA at 800‑906‑9887, AARP Tax‑Aide at 888‑227‑7669, or dial Washington 2‑1‑1 (or 877‑211‑9274 if 2‑1‑1 doesn’t work). (irs.gov, wa211.org)
• Health insurance credits: Washington Healthplanfinder gives federal Premium Tax Credits through 2025; some state Cascade Care Savings are limited for new 2025 customers. Healthplanfinder help: 855‑923‑4633 (TTY 855‑627‑9604). (wahbexchange.org, wahealthplanfinder.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Your First 10‑Minute Action Plan

• File your federal return electronically and direct‑deposit your refund. That triggers both EITC and CTC automatically if you qualify. E‑filing plus direct deposit gives fastest refunds. (irs.gov)
• The same day, submit your WFTC application online. Have your 1040 PDF ready to upload. If you can’t finish, save a draft in MyDOR. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
• If you need free help, call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) or 888‑227‑7669 (AARP), or dial 2‑1‑1 in Washington for an appointment near you. (irs.gov, wa211.org)

Washington Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC)

Do this now

Apply as soon as you file your 2024 federal return. Maximum 2024 benefit is $1,290 (family with 3+ kids). You can also apply retroactively for 2023 and 2022 within the 3‑year window. (dor.wa.gov)

Who qualifies (2024 tax year)

• Lived in Washington at least 183 days in 2024.
• Have a valid SSN or ITIN.
• Are age 25–64, or have a qualifying child.
• Filed a 2024 federal return.
• Eligible for the federal EITC (or would be if filing with ITIN).
  These echo EITC rules, with WFTC allowing ITIN filers. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

How much (2024)

The WFTC ties to EITC income limits. Minimum refund is $50. Maximums below. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

Source: Washington DOR WFTC (TY 2024). (dor.wa.gov)

How to apply (3 ways)

• Online (fastest): Apply in MyDOR at Apply for WFTC. Upload your full federal return. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
• E‑file integration: Some tax software (including TurboTax in 2025) lets you file WFTC with your tax return. (dor.wa.gov)
• Paper or in person: Download a paper application (available in English and 12 other languages) and mail or drop-off at a DOR office near you. Office list and numbers are posted on the WFTC site. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

WFTC helpline: 360‑763‑7300 (interpreters available; TTY 711) and local office phone numbers such as Seattle 206‑727‑5300 and Vancouver 360‑256‑2060. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

Required documents

• Full copy of your signed 2024 federal return (not just the 1040 page; attach the whole PDF).
• SSN/ITIN and dates of birth for you, spouse, and children.
• WA ID or driver’s license if you have one (not required).
• Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit (optional but faster).
  These are listed on the official “Apply” page. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

Timeline and payments

• Processing can take up to 90 days. Choose direct deposit, debit card, or paper check.
• WSECU cashes WFTC paper checks for free if you need it.
• You can apply all year; 2024 claims are accepted Feb 1, 2025 through Dec 31, 2028. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov, dor.wa.gov)

Real‑world example

A Tacoma mom with two kids, $28,000\ast \ast earnedincome,andHeadofHouseholdfiledher2024return.ShequalifiesforEITCandthengetsWFTCof\ast \ast$965 (maximum for two kids) via direct deposit about 6 weeks after applying. Amounts depend on your exact income; this shows the ceiling for two kids. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Submitting the WFTC application twice. If you need to fix something, call 360‑763‑7300 to make a correction.
• Uploading only the first page of your 1040 instead of the entire federal return PDF.
• Entering a child’s SSN/ITIN or date of birth incorrectly (this is a frequent delay). (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Call the WFTC helpline 360‑763‑7300 and ask for a status check or identity verification instructions.
• Visit a DOR office (addresses list on the site) for in‑person help.
• Get free application help from a community partner via the WFTC “Get help” page or dial 2‑1‑1 statewide. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov, wa211.org)

Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

Do this now

File your 2024 federal return and claim EITC if your earned income is below the IRS limits. Use direct deposit. Most refunds that include EITC arrive the first week of March (the IRS holds these refunds until mid/late February by law). (irs.gov)

2024 EITC amounts and limits

Investment income must be $11,600 or less (2024). Source: IRS. Page last updated April/Feb 2025. (eitc.irs.gov)

Key eligibility rules (in plain English)

• You must have earned income (wages, tips, or net self‑employment).
• You, your spouse (if filing jointly), and each qualifying child must have valid SSNs.
• Filing status can be Head of Household, Single, MFJ, or (in narrow cases) Married Filing Separately under ARPA rules; check IRS rules or VITA for MFS special rule.
• Your child must meet relationship, age, and residency tests. See Publication 596 for details. (irs.gov)

Filing and timing

• The IRS cannot issue refunds for returns claiming EITC or ACTC before mid/late February (PATH Act). Most early filers see status updates by late February and money by the first week of March. Track on “Where’s My Refund?” (irs.gov)

Real‑world example

A Yakima mom with three kids earns $33,000\ast \ast .ShefilesasHeadofHousehold,qualifiesforEITCnearthetopofthephase‑incurve,andreceivesanEITCover\ast \ast$6,000 plus CTC (see below). Actual credit depends on exact earned income. Use the IRS EITC Assistant for a quick estimate. (eitc.irs.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Both parents claiming the same child in split custody years. Keep school, medical, or landlord records that show the child lived with you more than half the year.
• Leaving off a child’s SSN or entering it wrong.
• Claiming EITC when your investment income is over $11,600. (eitc.irs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If your refund is delayed due to identity verification, respond promptly to IRS Letter 5071C/4883C/5747C online or by phone; after verification, it can still take up to 9 weeks to release the refund. Identity verification hotline info is on your letter. (irs.gov)
• If you can’t resolve it and have hardship, contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877‑777‑4778. (irs.gov)

Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Credit for Other Dependents (ODC)

Do this now

File Schedule 8812. For 2024, CTC is up to $2,000\ast \ast perchildunder17,andupto\ast \ast$1,700 per child may be refundable (ACTC). Income phaseout starts at $200,000\ast \ast forHeadofHousehold/single.YourchildneedsanSSNforCTC.Ifthechilddoesn’thaveanSSN,youmayclaimthe\ast \ast$500 ODC if other rules are met. (irs.gov)

Notes for mixed‑status families

• Parent with ITIN can file and claim the ODC ($500, nonrefundable) for a dependent without an SSN; but for the CTC/ACTC, each qualifying child needs an SSN issued by the return due date. (irs.gov)

Timeline reality check

• If you claim ACTC, your entire refund is held until mid‑February. Most taxpayers get money by the first week of March if no other issues. (irs.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Claiming CTC for a child who turned 17 during the tax year (no longer qualifies for CTC; consider ODC if eligible).
• Filing without Schedule 8812 or missing your child’s SSN. (irs.gov)

Plan B

• If you don’t qualify for CTC, check whether ODC ($500) or EITC applies. For disputes or complex cases, ask VITA/AARP or call TAS (877‑777‑4778). (irs.gov)

Child and Dependent Care Credit (to help with childcare you paid so you could work)

Do this now

Gather daycare receipts, provider’s name, address, and EIN/SSN. File Form 2441.

• Credit equals a percentage (20%–35%) of up to $3,000\ast \ast inexpensesforonechildor\ast \ast$6,000 for two or more. The percentage declines as income rises (see table below). This credit is nonrefundable for 2024. (irs.gov)

Source: IRS Pub 503/Instructions for Form 2441. (irs.gov)

Tips:

• Day camps count; overnight camps and school tuition above kindergarten don’t.
• If you got dependent care benefits through work, coordinate with Form 2441 rules. (irs.gov)

Plan B: If you can’t get the provider’s SSN/EIN after reasonable effort, you may still claim the credit—document your attempts per IRS instructions. Ask VITA to walk you through it. (irs.gov)

Education Credits: AOTC and LLC

Do this now

If you or your child is in college or job‑training, request Form 1098‑T from the school and review credits.

• American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): up to $2,500\ast \ast /student;40$1,000. First 4 years only; at least half‑time. (irs.gov)
• Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): up to $2,000/return; unlimited years; nonrefundable; income limits apply. (irs.gov)

Plan B: If you don’t have a 1098‑T, you may still claim if you can prove eligible expenses—see IRS guidance and keep receipts. (irs.gov)

Health Insurance Premium Tax Credit (Marketplace)

Do this now

If you buy coverage on Washington Healthplanfinder, update your 2025 income and household info so your advance credits are correct, then reconcile on your tax return with Form 8962.

• Enhanced federal Premium Tax Credits are extended through 2025. Washington also offers state “Cascade Care Savings,” but funding for new customers in 2025 is limited; current recipients in 2025 keep it. Healthplanfinder support: 855‑923‑4633 (TTY 855‑627‑9604). (wahbexchange.org)
• AI/AN families can get special $0 cost‑sharing benefits and tribal sponsorship options. Navigators are available statewide. (wahbexchange.org)

Plan B: If your eligibility or subsidy amount seems wrong, you may appeal within 90 days of your eligibility notice. (wahbexchange.org)

Filing Status & Head of Household (HOH)

Do this now

If you’re unmarried and paid more than half the cost of keeping up your home for your child, check if you qualify for Head of Household (HOH). It generally lowers your tax and raises credit thresholds.

• 2024 standard deductions: $21,900\ast \ast (HOH);\ast \ast$14,600 (Single/MFS); $29,200 (MFJ). (irs.gov)
• If you’re separated but still legally married, HOH is possible if you meet “considered unmarried” rules. See Pub 504. (irs.gov)

Plan B: If a former partner is claiming your child, gather documents (lease, school, medical records) and talk to VITA/TAS about tie‑breaker rules before filing. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)

ITIN Filers: What you can (and can’t) claim

Do this now

If you don’t have an SSN, apply for or renew an ITIN with Form W‑7 and your tax return (or use an exception). Some IRS offices and Certifying Acceptance Agents can verify documents so you keep originals. Appointments: 844‑545‑5640. (irs.gov)

• With an ITIN, you can claim Washington’s WFTC if you meet all other rules. You can also claim the ODC ($500) for eligible dependents. For the federal CTC and EITC, the child (CTC) and everyone for EITC must have SSNs. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov, irs.gov)

Plan B: If your ITIN application is pending, file by mail with W‑7 attached. Processing can take 7–11 weeks depending on season. Use a CAA if you can. (irs.gov)

Where to Get Free, Local, Statewide Help (Washington)

• Washington DOR WFTC Help Center & Offices: WFTC hotline 360‑763‑7300; see office list (Seattle 206‑727‑5300, Vancouver 360‑256‑2060, others statewide). (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
• IRS VITA: 800‑906‑9887. AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669. Online site locator tools are on IRS/AARP sites. (irs.gov)
• Washington 2‑1‑1: Dial 2‑1‑1 (or 877‑211‑9274 if 2‑1‑1 fails) to find free tax prep and other help near you. (wa211.org)
• King County: United Way of King County Free Tax Help (post‑season and during season; income guidelines posted). Info line: 206‑461‑3700 (varies by season). (uwkc.org, spl.org)
• Pierce County: Call 2‑1‑1 to book VITA at library sites; see the Pierce County Library tax info page for dates. (mypcls.org)
• Spokane County: AARP Tax‑Aide at multiple library/community sites; for appointments call 509‑353‑4851 (seasonal). (unitedwayspokane.org)
• Clark County/Vancouver: VITA through FVRLibraries and partners; multilingual support; see locations and hours. (fvrl.org)
• Statewide online: MyFreeTaxesWA.org (United Ways of the Pacific Northwest) for free filing options and a site map of VITA/TCE partners. (myfreetaxeswa.org)
• Immigrant assistance (WFTC/ITIN): Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network hotline 844‑724‑3737 (6am–6pm daily) for phone assistance with WFTC; plus ITIN resources. (wataxcredit.org)

Application Checklist (print or save)

• Photo ID(s) for you (and spouse if applicable).
• Social Security cards or ITIN letters for everyone on the return.
• All W‑2s, 1099s (including 1099‑K/NEC/MISC), and any SSA‑1099.
• Form 1095‑A (if you had Marketplace coverage).
• Childcare provider’s name, address, and EIN/SSN plus receipts (for Form 2441).
• 1098‑T and tuition/fees receipts (for AOTC/LLC).
• Bank routing/account numbers for direct deposit.
• Full copy of your filed federal return PDF to upload with your WFTC application. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filing early but forgetting the PATH Act hold: refunds with EITC/ACTC cannot be issued before mid/late February; most land the first week of March if there are no issues. Don’t pay a loan to “get your refund faster.” (irs.gov)
• Claiming the wrong filing status; missing HOH when eligible. Check Pub 504. (irs.gov)
• Duplicate WFTC applications or missing the full federal return attachment. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
• Typo in a child’s SSN/ITIN or birth date (both federal and WFTC will stall). (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
• Ignoring an IRS identity‑verification letter (5071C/4883C/5747C). Respond quickly; refunds can take up to 9 weeks after you verify. (irs.gov)

Diverse Communities: Targeted Pointers and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single parents and Washington Registered Domestic Partners (RDPs): For EITC, RDP rules in WA follow IRS guidance—your earned income doesn’t include your partner’s income; review Pub 596 and Pub 555 if applicable. (irs.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with a child who has a disability: A child who is permanently and totally disabled can be a qualifying child for EITC regardless of age if other tests are met. See Pub 596 and ask VITA to check this. (irs.gov)
• Veteran and active‑duty moms: You can elect to include nontaxable combat pay in earned income for EITC if it increases the credit; test both ways. See IRS military EITC rules. (irs.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee moms: You can claim WFTC with an ITIN and may claim ODC ($500) for dependents who don’t qualify for CTC; consider meeting a Certifying Acceptance Agent for ITIN help. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov, irs.gov)
• Tribal families: American Indian/Alaska Native households may qualify for special $0 cost‑sharing on Healthplanfinder and may benefit from tribal sponsorships that help pay premiums. Use a tribal assister if available. (wahbexchange.org)
• Rural moms with limited internet/transportation: You can mail the WFTC application or visit a DOR field office; WFTC community events and library‑based VITA sites are common—dial 2‑1‑1 to locate one. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov, wa211.org)
• Single fathers: All the same credit rules apply—EITC, CTC, WFTC, etc.—as long as dependency and residency tests are met (and for CTC, the child has an SSN). (irs.gov)
• Language access: WFTC paper forms are available in 13 languages; interpreters available by phone. Ask VITA/TCE for language support when you book. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)

FAQs (Washington‑specific)

1. How much can a single mom get from WFTC for 2024?
   Up to $1,290\ast \ast ifyouhave3+qualifyingchildren;\ast \ast$965 with 2; $640\ast \ast with1;\ast \ast$325 with 0. Minimum $50. Income limits apply. (dor.wa.gov, workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
2. When will I get my EITC/CTC refund?
   By law, refunds with EITC/ACTC are held until mid/late February; most arrive by the first week of March if you e‑filed and chose direct deposit and there are no issues. (irs.gov)
3. Can I apply for WFTC even if I missed it last year?
   Yes. In 2025 you can apply for 2024, 2023, and 2022 (up to 3 years back). (dor.wa.gov)
4. Do I need an SSN to get WFTC?
   No. WFTC allows SSN or ITIN if all other rules are met. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
5. My child doesn’t have an SSN yet. Can I get the Child Tax Credit?
   No, not until the child has a valid SSN issued by the return due date. You may qualify for the $500 ODC instead if other rules are met. (irs.gov)
6. I’m separated. Can I file as Head of Household?
   Possibly, if you’re “considered unmarried” and meet support and residency tests. Pub 504 explains the details. (irs.gov)
7. How long does WFTC processing take?
   Up to 90 days. Direct deposit is the fastest. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
8. I got an IRS 5071C letter to verify identity. What do I do?
   Verify online or by phone promptly; after verification, your refund can still take up to 9 weeks. (irs.gov)
9. Can I still get help if I live outside King County?
   Yes. Call 2‑1‑1, use the IRS VITA locator (or 800‑906‑9887), or check MyFreeTaxesWA.org for a statewide map of free tax sites. (wa211.org, irs.gov, myfreetaxeswa.org)
10. Who do I call if the IRS delay is causing me hardship (eviction, shut‑off)?
    Contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service at 877‑777‑4778 (TTY 800‑829‑4059). They can step in if you qualify. (irs.gov)

Quick Reference Tables

Table: 2024 EITC snapshot (single/HOH)

Source: IRS. (eitc.irs.gov)

Table: 2024 Washington WFTC (mirrors EITC limits)

Source: Washington DOR. (dor.wa.gov)

Table: CTC/ODC quick view (2024)

Source: IRS Schedule 8812 instructions & Tax Tips. (irs.gov)

Table: Child & Dependent Care Credit (2024)

Source: IRS Pub 503. (irs.gov)

Table: Standard deductions (2024)

Source: IRS. (irs.gov)

What to Do If You Still Feel Stuck

• Call WFTC: 360‑763‑7300 (TTY 711). (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
• Call VITA: 800‑906‑9887 or AARP: 888‑227‑7669. (irs.gov)
• Use 2‑1‑1: Dial 2‑1‑1 statewide (or 877‑211‑9274). (wa211.org)
• Taxpayer Advocate: 877‑777‑4778 if an IRS delay or problem is causing hardship. (irs.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Washington 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

• Tax programs, dollar amounts, eligibility, deadlines, phone numbers, websites, and links can change. Always verify on the official agency sites before you apply or rely on a number.
• This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice for your specific situation.
• To keep our website secure, never email or text your SSN/ITIN, bank info, or tax documents to anyone claiming to be from ASingleMother.org. We will never ask for your password, 2FA codes, or full SSN. Use only official government portals when submitting applications.

Key official sources used in this guide:

• WFTC 2024 amounts, eligibility, application windows, phone: Washington DOR/WFTC. (dor.wa.gov, workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov)
• EITC 2024 limits and amounts, refund timing: IRS. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
• CTC/ACTC 2024: IRS Schedule 8812 instructions/Tax Time Guide. (irs.gov)
• Child & Dependent Care: IRS Pub 503/Form 2441 instructions. (irs.gov)
• Saver’s Credit 2024: IRS. (irs.gov)
• Health credits and WA Healthplanfinder policy updates: Washington Health Benefit Exchange. (wahbexchange.org)
• PATH Act refund hold and identity verification: IRS/TAS. (irs.gov)

Reality checks included here—processing times, PATH Act delays, and WFTC paperwork pitfalls—come from the agencies’ own pages so you can plan your cash flow with eyes wide open. (workingfamiliescredit.wa.gov, irs.gov)

Stay safe, file early with direct deposit, and use the free help lines when you need them.

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