Tax season can be challenging, especially when money is tight. Tax credits can lower the taxes you owe or increase your tax refund. You might even be able to get money back through the Earned Income Tax Credit, even if you don't owe federal income taxes.
Free tax help
If you meet certain qualifications, you can get free tax help from the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. With this program, IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax preparation and electronic filing. Review qualifications and find free tax help by zip code.
Earned Income Tax Credit
If you have low income, the Earned Income Tax Credit might lower the amount of federal income tax you owe. You could get the credit as long as you have some earned income from a job or self-employment. Even if you don't earn enough money to owe federal income taxes, it might be worth filing taxes so you can get money from the credit. Many people who qualify for the credit miss out on it because they don't file taxes.
Learn more about the Earned Income Tax Credit from Disability Benefits 101.