EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Wisconsin EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for Wisconsin single mothers who need clear, verified steps to claim every tax credit you’ve earned. It covers the 2024 tax year (filed in 2025) and calls out changes affecting 2025 planning. All dollar amounts, deadlines, and phone numbers are bolded for quick scanning, and every fact links to an official source.
Quick Help (read this first)
- If you worked in 2024, check your eligibility for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). For 2024, the maximum EITC is $7,830 with three or more kids, with income limits that vary by family size. Refunds with EITC don’t arrive before mid‑February by law. Use the IRS EITC Assistant and refund tracker. IRS EITC: income limits and refund timing • IRS refund timing for EITC/ACTC. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- Wisconsin’s own Earned Income Credit (WEIC) adds 4% / 11% / 34% of your federal EITC for 1 / 2 / 3+ qualifying children. It’s refundable. WI DOR Earned Income Credit fact sheet. (revenue.wi.gov)
- Wisconsin doubled its Child & Dependent Care Credit for 2024 and raised state expense caps. You now get 100% of your federal care credit but can count up to 10,000∗∗ofeligibleexpensesforonedependentor∗∗10,000** of eligible expenses for one dependent or **20,000 for two or more. Max state credit: up to 3,500∗∗(onedependent)or∗∗upto3,500** (one dependent) or **up to 7,000 (two or more), depending on income. 2023 WI Act 101 (effective 2024). (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
- If you rent or pay property tax and your 2024 household income was under 24,680∗∗,checkWisconsin’sHomesteadCredit(maxcredit∗∗24,680**, check Wisconsin’s Homestead Credit (max credit **1,168; allowable property taxes capped at **1,460∗∗fortheformula).FileScheduleHorH‑EZ.[WIDORHomesteadCreditfacts](https://www.revenue.wi.gov/DOR1,460** for the formula). File Schedule H or H‑EZ. [WI DOR Homestead Credit facts](https://www.revenue.wi.gov/DOR%20Publications/1116hc.pdf) • [H filing and 1,460 cap note](https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/OnlineServices/hcfiling.aspx). (revenue.wi.gov)
- For the 2024 Child Tax Credit (CTC), the credit is up to 2,000∗∗perqualifyingchildunder17;upto∗∗2,000** per qualifying child under 17; up to **1,700 of that may be refundable (ACTC). File Schedule 8812. Refunds with ACTC also don’t arrive before mid‑February. IRS Schedule 8812 instructions (2024). (irs.gov)
- Need free, safe help filing? Call 211 or IRS VITA at 800‑906‑9887 for local free tax prep sites. Wisconsin DOR Customer Service for individuals: 608‑266‑2486. WI DOR VITA info • WI DOR phones. (revenue.wi.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Keep this handy)
| Credit/Program | Who It Helps | 2024 Max Benefit | Refundable? | How to Claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC | Workers with low-to-moderate earnings | Up to $7,830 (3+ kids); income limits apply | Yes | Form 1040 + Schedule EIC if claiming with kids. IRS EITC page (eitc.irs.gov) |
| Wisconsin EIC | WI residents with at least one qualifying child who get federal EITC | 4% (1 child), 11% (2), 34% (3+) of federal EITC | Yes | Included on WI Form 1 automatically from federal; see WI DOR EIC. (revenue.wi.gov) |
| Child Tax Credit (CTC) + ACTC | Parents with kids under 17 | 2,000∗∗perchild;upto∗∗2,000** per child; up to **1,700 refundable (ACTC) | Partly | Schedule 8812. IRS Schedule 8812 (2024). (irs.gov) |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit (Federal) | Working parents paying for care | Up to 35% of expenses; expense caps 3,000∗∗(one)/∗∗3,000** (one) / **6,000 (2+) | No | Form 2441. IRS Pub 503. (irs.gov) |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit (Wisconsin, 2024+) | Same, but WI expands caps and matches 100% of federal calculated credit | Up to 3,500∗∗(one)/∗∗3,500** (one) / **7,000 (2+) depending on income | No | WI follows federal percentage with higher expense limits via Act 101. 2023 WI Act 101. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov) |
| Homestead Credit (WI) | Low-income renters/homeowners | Max credit 1,168∗∗;householdincomemustbe∗∗<1,168**; household income must be **< 24,680 | Yes | Schedule H or H‑EZ; rent certificate or tax bill needed. WI DOR Fact Sheet 1116. (revenue.wi.gov) |
| Saver’s Credit | Low/moderate-income workers who saved for retirement | Up to 1,000∗∗(single)/∗∗1,000** (single) / **2,000 (MFJ) | No | Form 8880. IRS Saver’s Credit. (irs.gov) |
| AOTC (education) | First 4 years of college | Up to 2,500∗∗perstudent;∗∗402,500** per student; **40%** refundable up to **1,000 | Partly | Form 8863. IRS AOTC. (irs.gov) |
| Lifetime Learning Credit | Any year of post‑secondary | Up to $2,000 per return | No | Form 8863. IRS Pub 970, LLC. (irs.gov) |
| Premium Tax Credit (Marketplace) | Low/moderate‑income families buying ACA coverage | Varies (reduces premiums) | Refundable | Form 8962; reconcile APTC. IRS Pub 974. (irs.gov) |
How this guide beats the typical top-10 results
Most search results miss or gloss over: the exact 2024 EITC limits and maximums; Wisconsin’s 2024 child care law change (higher expense caps with 100% match) and how it interacts with FSAs; Homestead Credit’s exact income limit, max credit, and property‑tax cap; step‑by‑step documents and phone numbers; refund timelines by law; and what to do if software or documentation causes a review. You’ll find all of that below with direct links to the official pages.
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): start here
First action to take
Use the IRS EITC tool to see if you qualify and how much you might get, then plan your filing date around the legal refund hold. IRS EITC central. (eitc.irs.gov)
2024 income limits and maximum EITC (single/head of household)
| Qualifying children | Income must be under | Max EITC |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $18,591 | $632 |
| 1 | $49,084 | $4,213 |
| 2 | $55,768 | $6,960 |
| 3+ | $59,899 | $7,830 |
Investment income must be $11,600 or less. Source: IRS 2024 limits (updated April 2025). See official table and ranges. (eitc.irs.gov)
What to gather (documents)
- Social Security cards or ITINs for you and each child; if claiming EITC for a child, use SSNs (ITINs don’t qualify a child for EITC). IRS rules. (irs.gov)
- W‑2s, 1099s, self‑employment records.
- Proof your child lived with you in the U.S. for over half the year (lease, school or medical records, or letters). IRS Pub 596. (irs.gov)
How to claim
- File Form 1040 and, if claiming with children, Schedule EIC.
- If you’re separated but still legally married, certain separated‑spouse rules may allow EITC without filing jointly—check the IRS guidance carefully. IRS Pub 596 updates. (irs.gov)
When will the refund arrive?
- By law (PATH Act), the IRS cannot issue refunds on returns that claim EITC or ACTC before mid‑February. For early filers, most EITC/ACTC refunds reach bank accounts by around March 3, if there are no issues and you chose direct deposit. Track it in “Where’s My Refund?” (updated daily). IRS timing page. (irs.gov)
Reality checks
- Expect extra verification if addresses or dependents changed mid‑year.
- Keep copies of school/day‑care and residency proof now to avoid delays in February.
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- Get free, IRS‑certified help: call 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) or 211. WI VITA program. (revenue.wi.gov)
- If IRS holds your refund past the expected window and you face hardship (eviction/shutoff notice), read Taxpayer Advocate steps for possible expedited handling. TAS guidance. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
Wisconsin Earned Income Credit (WEIC)
First action to take
If you qualify for the federal EITC and have at least one qualifying child, claim the Wisconsin EIC on your state return. It’s refundable and rides on your federal EITC amount. WI DOR EIC fact sheet (updated Feb 2025). (revenue.wi.gov)
How much?
- 1 child: 4% of your federal EITC
- 2 children: 11%
- 3 or more children: 34%
Examples using the 2024 federal maximums:
- If your federal EITC is 4,213∗∗(onechildmax),WIEIC≈∗∗4,213** (one child max), WI EIC ≈ **169 (4%).
- If federal is 6,960∗∗(twokidsmax),WIEIC≈∗∗6,960** (two kids max), WI EIC ≈ **766 (11%).
- If federal is 7,830∗∗(3+kidsmax),WIEIC≈∗∗7,830** (3+ kids max), WI EIC ≈ **2,662 (34%).
Percentages per WI DOR; federal EITC maximums per IRS 2024. DOR EIC 1114 • IRS 2024 max table. (revenue.wi.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
Eligibility basics (WI)
- You must meet federal EITC rules (as adopted by Wisconsin).
- You must be a full‑year Wisconsin resident and, if married, file jointly or qualify as head of household for WI. DOR EIC 1114. (revenue.wi.gov)
How to claim and timelines
- File WI Form 1. Refunds typically deposit in under 15 days for accurate e‑filed state returns, but can take up to 12 weeks if reviewed. WI DOR refund timing. (revenue.wi.gov)
If WI reviews or denies your EIC
- DOR often does a pre‑refund review. Respond to letters fully and on time. You can appeal within 60 days if adjusted/denied. DOR EIC review guidance. (revenue.wi.gov)
- Know the penalties: reckless or fraudulent credit claims can trigger 2‑year or 10‑year bans from refundable credits in Wisconsin, with 25% or 100% penalties on the overclaimed amount. Don’t guess. Document everything. DOR Reckless/Fraudulent Claims. (revenue.wi.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- Bring your notice to a free VITA/TCE site (call 800‑906‑9887 or 888‑227‑7669) or call WI DOR Customer Service: 608‑266‑2486. DOR phones. (revenue.wi.gov)
Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
First action to take
If your child was under 17 on December 31, 2024, complete Schedule 8812 to compute the CTC/ACTC. For 2024, the maximum refundable ACTC is $1,700 per child. IRS Schedule 8812 (2024). (irs.gov)
Key points for single moms
- Max CTC is 2,000∗∗perchild;upto∗∗2,000** per child; up to **1,700 may be refundable (ACTC) in 2024.
- Phaseout begins at $200,000 modified AGI for head of household; you still must have earned income to get ACTC. IRS 8812 and CTC key messages • IRS CTC key messages. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
Refund timing reality
- Returns claiming ACTC are legally held until mid‑February. Many early filers see deposits around first week of March if there are no issues. IRS timing. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your credit was disallowed in a prior year, you may need Form 8862 to reclaim it. IRS Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credit (daycare/after‑school/disabled adult care)
First action to take
If you paid for care so you could work or look for work in 2024, complete Form 2441 for the federal credit, then be sure your Wisconsin return applies the expanded 2024 state rules under 2023 Wisconsin Act 101 (100% of federal credit with higher state expense caps). Act 101 text. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
How it works (federal vs. Wisconsin)
- Federal credit is 20%–35% of eligible care expenses (you get 35% if income is low; at incomes above 43,000∗∗therateistypically∗∗2043,000** the rate is typically **20%**). Federal expenses are capped at **3,000 (one dependent) or $6,000 (two+). It’s nonrefundable. IRS Pub 503. (irs.gov)
- Wisconsin (tax year 2024 and forward): credit equals 100% of your federal credit but Wisconsin allows you to count up to 10,000∗∗inexpensesforonedependentand∗∗10,000** in expenses for one dependent and **20,000 for two or more when figuring the state credit. That’s why the WI maxes can reach 3,500∗∗(one)or∗∗3,500** (one) or **7,000 (two+), depending on your income‑based federal percentage. Act 101. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
FSA interplay tip (important)
- If you used a dependent care FSA (Box 10 on your W‑2), those pre‑tax dollars reduce expenses eligible for the federal credit. Wisconsin’s law instructs using the state’s higher expense limit when computing the state credit amount. Double‑check that your software completed Wisconsin’s child/dependent care form correctly and didn’t drop your state credit because your federal credit was reduced by an FSA. Act 101 mechanics. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
Quick examples
- One child, 10,000∗∗eligibleexpenses,head‑of‑householdincomeabove∗∗10,000** eligible expenses, head‑of‑household income above **43,000: Federal credit ≈ 20% × 3,000=3,000 = 600; Wisconsin credit ≈ 20% × 10,000=10,000 = 2,000.
- Two kids, 20,000∗∗eligibleexpenses,incomeabove∗∗20,000** eligible expenses, income above **43,000: Federal ≈ 20% × 6,000=6,000 = 1,200; Wisconsin ≈ 20% × 20,000=20,000 = 4,000.
Examples follow IRS 20% rate at higher incomes; state limits and 100% match under Act 101. IRS Pub 503 • Act 101. (irs.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your software looks off, print the WI child/dependent care schedule and check the expense limits and percentage. Ask a VITA site to review your WI Form 2441/WI schedule for free or call WI DOR at 608‑266‑2486. WI DOR phones. (revenue.wi.gov)
Wisconsin Homestead Credit (renters and homeowners)
First action to take
If your 2024 household income is under $24,680, and you paid rent or property tax on your Wisconsin home, file Schedule H or H‑EZ for the refundable Homestead Credit. Do not skip this even if you have no state tax due. DOR Homestead Credit 1116. (revenue.wi.gov)
Rules and amounts (2024 claims)
- Household income must be < 24,680∗∗.Maxcreditis∗∗24,680**. Max credit is **1,168.
- For formula purposes, allowable property taxes are capped at **1,460∗∗(rentisconvertedto“rentaspropertytax”usingtherentcertificate).[DORFactSheet1116](https://www.revenue.wi.gov/DOR1,460** (rent is converted to “rent as property tax” using the rent certificate). [DOR Fact Sheet 1116](https://www.revenue.wi.gov/DOR%20Publications/1116hc.pdf) • [DOR e‑file page noting 1,460 cap](https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/OnlineServices/hcfiling.aspx). (revenue.wi.gov)
- You must attach your 2024 rent certificate (signed by your landlord) or your 2024 property tax bill with your claim. DOR Homestead FAQs. (revenue.wi.gov)
Filing window and how to file
- Do not file a 2024 claim before January 1, 2025. The filing deadline for 2024 Schedule H/H‑EZ is April 16, 2029. You can e‑file using WisTax if you qualify, or paper file with attachments. DOR Homestead FAQs: deadlines and e‑filing • WisTax options. (revenue.wi.gov)
Refund timing
- Paper claims often take longer; DOR says allow up to 12 weeks. For status, call 608‑266‑8100 (Madison), 414‑227‑4907 (Milwaukee), or 866‑947‑7363. DOR paper‑filed claim timing & refund lines. (revenue.wi.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)
- If your landlord refuses to sign the rent certificate, DOR has guidance—contact DOR Homestead at 608‑266‑8641 or email DORHomesteadCredit@wisconsin.gov. DOR Homestead pages. (revenue.wi.gov)
Other tax credits most single mothers miss
- Saver’s Credit: If your 2024 head‑of‑household AGI is ≤ 57,375∗∗,youmayget∗∗10–5057,375**, you may get **10–50%** back on up to **2,000 of retirement contributions (max credit $1,000). IRS Saver’s Credit. (irs.gov)
- American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): Up to 2,500∗∗pereligiblestudent,∗∗402,500** per eligible student, **40%** refundable up to **1,000. IRS AOTC. (irs.gov)
- Lifetime Learning Credit: Up to $2,000 per return for continued education (nonrefundable). IRS Pub 970. (irs.gov)
- Premium Tax Credit (Marketplace): If you had Healthcare.gov coverage with advance payments (APTC), you must file Form 8962 to reconcile or you risk losing future help. IRS Pub 974. (irs.gov)
- Property tax bill credits on your bill (not on your income tax): School Levy, Lottery & Gaming, and First Dollar credits automatically reduce your bill—no separate claim. DOR property tax credits overview. (revenue.wi.gov)
Tables you can scan fast
Table: 2024 Federal EITC limits and ranges (single/HOH)
| Kids | Income must be < | EITC range |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $18,591 | 2–2–632 |
| 1 | $49,084 | 9–9–4,213 |
| 2 | $55,768 | 10–10–6,960 |
| 3+ | $59,899 | 11–11–7,830 |
Source: IRS EITC Central (reviewed 2025‑04‑10). IRS table. (eitc.irs.gov)
Table: Wisconsin EIC percentages (2024)
| Qualifying children | WI credit = % of your federal EITC |
|---|---|
| 0 | No WI credit |
| 1 | 4% |
| 2 | 11% |
| 3+ | 34% |
DOR Fact Sheet 1114 (Feb 24, 2025). (revenue.wi.gov)
Table: Child & Dependent Care Credit – Federal vs Wisconsin (2024+)
| Federal | Wisconsin (2024 and after) | |
|---|---|---|
| Rate | 20–35% based on income | Matches federal % |
| Expense cap (one) | $3,000 | $10,000 |
| Expense cap (two+) | $6,000 | $20,000 |
| Refundable? | No | No |
| Form | Form 2441 | WI return automatically computes using WI rules |
Sources: IRS Pub 503 • 2023 WI Act 101. (irs.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
Table: Wisconsin Homestead Credit (2024 claims)
| Item | 2024 rule |
|---|---|
| Household income limit | $24,680 |
| Max credit | $1,168 |
| Max allowable property taxes (for formula) | $1,460 |
| Filing deadline | April 16, 2029 (for 2024 claims) |
| Forms | Schedule H or H‑EZ, with rent certificate or property tax bill |
DOR Fact Sheet 1116 (Feb 24, 2025) • DOR Homestead FAQs • DOR e‑file page (cap detail). (revenue.wi.gov)
Table: Refund timelines
| What | Typical e‑file direct deposit | Legal/operational holds |
|---|---|---|
| Federal (no EITC/ACTC) | Often under 21 days | Errors extend |
| Federal (with EITC/ACTC) | Updated by late Feb; most by ~March 3 | PATH Act mid‑Feb hold |
| Wisconsin | Often under 15 days | Up to 12 weeks if reviewed |
Sources: IRS EITC refund timing • WI DOR timing. (irs.gov, revenue.wi.gov)
Real‑world examples (with numbers)
- A Milwaukee mom with two kids earned 31,000∗∗in2024.EstimatedfederalEITC≈∗∗31,000** in 2024. Estimated federal EITC ≈ **5,500 (varies by exact income), so WI EIC ≈ 11% × 5,500=5,500 = 605. If she paid 8,000∗∗forafter‑schoolandsummercare,federalcarecreditat20–358,000** for after‑school and summer care, federal care credit at 20–35% yields **1,600–2,800∗∗on2,800** on 8,000 capped at 6,000federally;Wisconsinadds∗∗20–356,000 federally; Wisconsin adds **20–35% × 8,000 or up to 20,000∗∗(twokids)underAct101,soshecouldsee∗∗20,000** (two kids) under Act 101, so she could see **1,600–$7,000 from WI depending on income. Confirm your exact rate on Form 2441. IRS Pub 503 • Act 101. (irs.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
- A renter in Eau Claire with household income 18,500∗∗and∗∗18,500** and **8,400 annual rent could qualify for Homestead. With the 1,460∗∗property‑taxcapinsidetheformulaandtheincome,thecreditoftenlandsinthemid‑hundredsuptothe∗∗1,460** property‑tax cap inside the formula and the income, the credit often lands in the mid‑hundreds up to the **1,168 max. Use Schedule H to compute and attach your rent certificate. DOR 1116 + H instructions. (revenue.wi.gov)
- A Madison college mom paid 2,500∗∗qualifiedtuitionandbooksandqualifiesfortheAOTC:∗∗2,500** qualified tuition and books and qualifies for the AOTC: **2,500 total credit (with $1,000 potentially refundable). IRS AOTC. (irs.gov)
Steps, documents, and where to file (fast list)
- File your federal return (Form 1040, add Schedule EIC/Schedule 8812/Form 2441 if needed). Track status in Where’s My Refund?. IRS EITC claim steps • Refund tracker. (irs.gov, eitc.irs.gov)
- File your Wisconsin return via WisTax (if you qualify) or software; Homestead can be filed standalone using WisTax Schedule H. 2024 WisTax supports Form 1 and Schedule H. WisTax. (revenue.wi.gov)
- Need forms mailed? Call WI DOR Forms at 608‑266‑2486 or email DORFormsRequests@wisconsin.gov. DOR forms page. (revenue.wi.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid (these cause denials and delays)
- Claiming a child who did not live with you more than half the year.
- Missing SSNs or using an ITIN for a child on EITC.
- Forgetting to attach the rent certificate or property tax bill for Homestead.
- Not reconciling APTC (Marketplace) with Form 8962.
- Software not applying Wisconsin’s 2024 child/dependent care expense caps—verify the WI result.
- Filing risky claims: Wisconsin can bar you from refundable credits for 2–10 years for reckless or fraudulent claims, with penalties. DOR penalties page. (revenue.wi.gov)
Application checklist (gather before you start)
- Your photo ID; SSNs for you and kids (or ITIN where applicable).
- W‑2s, 1099s, self‑employment records; child‑care provider name, address, EIN/SSN.
- Schedule EIC details (child’s school/medical/lease records for residency).
- Rent certificate (original, signed by landlord) or property tax bill for Homestead.
- Form 1095‑A (Marketplace), if any, for Form 8962 reconciliation.
- Child care FSA info (W‑2 Box 10) for Form 2441.
- A bank account and routing number for direct deposit.
Free help filing and getting answers
- IRS VITA/TCE sites (free filing): 800‑906‑9887 (VITA) • 888‑227‑7669 (AARP Tax‑Aide) • or dial 211. WI DOR VITA hub. (revenue.wi.gov)
- Wisconsin DOR Customer Service (individuals): 608‑266‑2486. Refund inquiry lines: 608‑266‑8100 (Madison), 414‑227‑4907 (Milwaukee), 866‑947‑7363 (toll‑free). DOR phones and refund status • Refund status. (revenue.wi.gov)
Diverse communities: tailored notes and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
You’re eligible under the same rules; choose head‑of‑household if you qualify. VITA sites offer inclusive, no‑cost filing help with interpretation services via IRS. IRS interpretation services (OPI) noted in Pub 503. (irs.gov) - Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
The child/dependent care credit also applies to care for a spouse or dependent who cannot care for themselves; no age limit if disabled. IRS Pub 503. (irs.gov) - Veteran single mothers
Contact Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs for benefits navigation (phone 800‑947‑8387 / 1‑800‑WIS‑VETS). They also have a Women Veterans Program. WDVA contact. (dva.wi.gov) - Immigrant/refugee single moms
For CTC/EITC, children need SSNs for certain credits; the IRS offers free over‑the‑phone interpreters in 350+ languages and “MyLanguage” resources. Use VITA if unsure. IRS interpretation and Schedule 8812 rules • IRS Pub 503 language access. (irs.gov) - Tribal‑specific resources
Great Lakes Inter‑Tribal Council can help connect you with tribal services; main line 715‑588‑3324. GLITC. (glitc.org) - Rural single moms with limited access
Call 211 to locate the nearest VITA or AARP site; some counties offer drop‑off or virtual VITA. WI DOR VITA hub. (revenue.wi.gov) - Single fathers
All credits in this guide also apply to single fathers who meet the criteria. - Language access
IRS TACs and VITA offer free interpreters; Wisconsin DOR has Spanish (Español) resources and phone help. IRS Pub 503 OPI • DOR fact sheets list (Español options). (irs.gov, revenue.wi.gov)
Resources by region (a few starting points)
- Milwaukee area: Social Development Commission VITA (main 414‑906‑2700). Or call 211 for additional sites. SDC VITA listing (via Goodwill roundup). (goodwillncw.org)
- Waukesha: La Casa de Esperanza VITA (262‑832‑1534). La Casa de Esperanza tax help. (goodwillncw.org)
- Madison/Dane County: Goodwill SCWI VITA (608‑852‑8355) and the Richard Dilley Tax Center (608‑283‑1261). Goodwill SCWI VITA • Roundup list. (goodwillscwi.org, goodwillncw.org)
- Green Bay/Fox Valley: UW‑Green Bay VITA (920‑393‑7845). UWGB VITA via Goodwill roundup. (goodwillncw.org)
- North/Northwest: Northwest Wisconsin Community Services Agency VITA (715‑392‑5127). NWCSA VITA. (goodwillncw.org)
- Wisconsin DOR local offices provide weekday tax assistance in Madison, Milwaukee, Appleton, Eau Claire, Green Bay, Wausau (main line 608‑266‑2772). Check addresses and hours. DOR office locations. (revenue.wi.gov)
Common pitfalls with timelines and how to avoid them
- Filing early and expecting your EITC/ACTC refund before mid‑February. The law prevents that. Plan bill payments accordingly. IRS timing. (irs.gov)
- Homestead Credit missing the rent certificate or tax bill; your refund will be delayed or denied. DOR Homestead FAQs. (revenue.wi.gov)
- Identity theft holds: consider a Wisconsin Identity Protection PIN to help prevent fraudulent state filings. WI IP‑PIN. (revenue.wi.gov)
FAQs (Wisconsin‑specific)
- Do I get Wisconsin EIC if I have no qualifying child?
No. Wisconsin EIC is only for filers with at least one qualifying child (but your federal EITC may still apply without children). DOR EIC. (revenue.wi.gov) - What is the 2024 EITC investment income cap?
$11,600. Go over that and you lose federal EITC for 2024. IRS EITC 2024. (eitc.irs.gov) - When will my EITC/ACTC refund show a date?
For early filers, “Where’s My Refund?” usually shows a date by late February, with most deposits by around March 3, if no issues. IRS timing. (irs.gov) - How fast are Wisconsin refunds?
Most e‑filed refunds deposit in under 15 days, but any review (EIC/Homestead) can extend to 12 weeks. DOR timing. (revenue.wi.gov) - What are the exact 2024 Homestead Credit limits?
Household income < 24,680∗∗;maxcredit∗∗24,680**; max credit **1,168; allowable property taxes limited to $1,460 for calculation; deadline April 16, 2029 for 2024 claims. DOR 1116 + e‑file page • DOR e‑file. (revenue.wi.gov) - Did Wisconsin increase the child/dependent care credit for 2024?
Yes. WI matches 100% of your federal credit and allows expenses up to 10,000∗∗(one)or∗∗10,000** (one) or **20,000 (two+). 2023 WI Act 101. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov) - What if my software shows $0 WI child care credit because I used a dependent care FSA?
Wisconsin computes the state credit using the higher state expense caps even if the federal is reduced. Verify the WI schedule; if needed, get help at a VITA site or call WI DOR at 608‑266‑2486. Act 101 language • DOR help lines. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov, revenue.wi.gov) - I got a letter reviewing my WI EIC. What now?
Send all requested documents by the deadline; you can request more time and appeal within 60 days if denied. DOR EIC review page. (revenue.wi.gov) - How do I check my Wisconsin refund?
Online or by phone: 608‑266‑8100 (Madison), 414‑227‑4907 (Milwaukee), 866‑947‑7363 (toll‑free). DOR refund inquiry. (revenue.wi.gov) - Where can I get free in‑person help in Milwaukee or Madison?
Milwaukee SDC VITA (414‑906‑2700); Madison Goodwill SCWI VITA (608‑852‑8355). Or call 211 for nearby sites. Goodwill/SDC listings • DOR VITA hub. (goodwillncw.org, revenue.wi.gov)
What to do if you hit a wall with any credit
- Call WI DOR individuals line 608‑266‑2486 for credit questions; ask for clarification before re‑filing. DOR phones. (revenue.wi.gov)
- Get a second look at a free VITA site; bring your notices and documents.
- If a federal refund is delayed beyond the usual windows and you face hardship, contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service. TAS help. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Wisconsin Department of Revenue, IRS/USDA/HUD where applicable, and established nonprofits. It’s 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.
Key sources you saw cited include: IRS EITC and refund timing (2024 limits and PATH Act holds), IRS Schedule 8812 (CTC/ACTC 2024), IRS Pub 503 (child/dependent care), Wisconsin 2023 Act 101 (child care credit expansion), WI DOR Fact Sheets 1114 (EIC) and 1116 (Homestead), DOR Homestead filing/e‑file pages, DOR refund timing and contact lines, Saver’s Credit and education credits (IRS), and GLITC/WDVA for community resources. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov, revenue.wi.gov, glitc.org, dva.wi.gov)
Disclaimer
- Programs, amounts, and rules change. Always verify current amounts and processes on official sites before you apply or file.
- Security: never post your SSN or private tax info in comments or emails. Only upload documents through secure portals (IRS.gov, revenue.wi.gov). Confirm website addresses before entering personal information. Use strong passwords and consider a WI Identity Protection PIN. WI IP‑PIN. (revenue.wi.gov)
- This guide is informational and not legal or tax advice. For personalized advice, consult a qualified tax professional or VITA/TCE volunteer.
🏛️More Wisconsin Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Wisconsin
- 📋 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
