What is the California Earned Income Tax Credit?
You could be among the millions of Californians who will be eligible for a California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) up to $3,529 for tax year 2023 as a working family or individual earning at least $1 and up to $30,950 per year. If you have a child under six, you could get even more. Filing your state tax return is required to claim the credits.
Young Child Tax Credit
The Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) provides up to $1,117 per eligible tax return. YCTC may provide you with cash back or reduce any tax you owe. California families qualify with earned income of $30,931 or less. You also must have a qualifying child under 6 years old at the end of the tax year and qualify for CalEITC – with one exception.
For tax year 2022 forward, no earned income is required.
Federal EITC & Child Tax Credits.
You may also qualify for the Federal Earned Income and Child Tax Credits depending on your income, filing status and number of dependents. The income limits are higher so if you don't qualify for California's you may still qualify for these. ITIN holders are not eligible to claim federal credits.
Foster Youth Tax Credit
You may qualify for a new Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) of up to $1,117 if
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You were in the California foster care system on or after your 13th birthday AND
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you are between the ages of 18 and 25 at the end of the tax year
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you claim the CalEITC
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and were placed through the California foster care system.
To claim this credit, the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) must verify your foster youth status using a statewide database.
I'm Retired
Retired and still working part-time? Employed or self-employed?
If you earned $30,950 or less, you may be eligible for the CalEITC! The refundable tax credit amount you can get depends on your income and household size.
I'm Self-Employed
If you are in business for yourself and earned less than $30,950, you may qualify for the CalEITC. Both Social Security Number holders and ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) holders are eligible.
I Have an ITIN
California has made it easy for ITIN holders to receive the credits they deserve. ITIN holders earning 1-75K with children or other dependents may also qualify for additional CalEITC credits.
Need help getting or have questions about an ITIN? Start here.
