Tax Credits for Parents Do NOT Affect WIC Benefits

Posted on | by Michelle

Families may qualify for cash-back tax credits worth hundreds or thousands of dollars from the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit (CTC), California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC), and Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) when they file their taxes. Even if you don’t normally file taxes or have low to no income, you may still qualify. Tax credits do not affect your WIC benefits.

File taxes for FREE!

What if I need help filing my taxes?

You may be able to get free tax help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. VITA is available for low-income households, people with disabilities, and taxpayers who speak limited English.

Find free tax assistance!

Which tax credits am I eligible for?

See the basic eligibility requirements for each tax credit below. For federal taxes, no additional form is needed to claim these credits. When filing for state taxes, families will need to fill out the California Earned Income Tax Credit Form 3514.

  • You’re between the ages of 25 and 65
  • You have worked and earned income under $57,414
  • You must have a valid Social Security Number
  • You’re a U.S. citizen or resident alien all year
  • Child must be under the age of 17
  • Qualifying child can be a son, daughter, foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, or their descendent
  • You’re at least 18 years old or have a qualifying child
  • You make $30,000 or less
  • You have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a Social Security Number
  • You’re at least 18 years old or have a qualifying child
  • You make $30,000 or less
  • You have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a Social Security Number
  • You have a child under the age of six

    • FAQs

    The amount you get depends on your household status, income and family size. For federal taxes, no additional form is needed. When filing for state taxes, you must also fill out the California Earned Income Tax Credit Form 3514.

    Californians who file their taxes with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), including undocumented Californians, can qualify for the CalEITC and YCTC. Individuals with ITINs are not eligible for federal tax credits. 

    Even if you are not required to file your taxes, you may still benefit from these tax credits, but you will need to file your taxes.

    No. Claiming tax credits will not affect the income you claim to receive public benefits. Tax credits are not considered public benefits under the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services public charge rule.