2026 EITC Calculator: How Big Will Your Tax Refund Be?

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is the single biggest anti-poverty program in America. It puts an average of $2,541 back in working families' pockets — and 1 in 5 eligible people never claims it.

Maximum EITC for 2026 (tax year 2025)

• 0 kids: up to $649
• 1 kid: up to $4,328
• 2 kids: up to $7,152
• 3+ kids: up to $8,046

Do you qualify?

Yes, if:

• You worked in 2025 (W-2 or 1099)
• Your earned income is below ~$66,819 (3 kids, married filing jointly)
• You have a valid Social Security Number
• You're a US citizen or resident alien all year

The exact income limit depends on your kids + marital status. The best way to know your number is to file your taxes — even if you don't owe any.

3 steps to claim EITC

1. File your taxes, even with low income — EITC is refundable, meaning you get a check even if you don't owe tax.
2. Use the right forms: Form 1040 + Schedule EIC. IRS Free File does this automatically.
3. Don't skip it if you didn't work full year — seasonal and part-time workers still qualify.

File free (and quickly)

If your income is under ~$79K, you can file 100% free through IRS Free File partners. Most filers finish in about 30 minutes.

State EITC bonuses

29 states have their own EITC bonus on top of the federal one. California, New York, and DC add up to an extra 45%. Check your state's rules in our Explorer.

Common mistakes

• Not filing because "I didn't owe tax" — EITC is refundable, file anyway!
• Filing with the wrong number of dependents (foster kids, nieces/nephews can sometimes count)
• Using the wrong software that doesn't check for EITC (always use one that does)

Ready to see your estimated refund? Check all benefits you qualify for first — many EITC filers also qualify for SNAP, Medicaid, and child tax credit.