Many individuals and families in the San Diego region face financial obstacles that prevent them from a healthy and quality life. We can help people access financial assistance and public benefits to help them get back on their feet. Call 2-1-1 to learn more about available resources.
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable cash-back tax credit for low-income working families and individuals. It is one of the most effective tools in America to lift families out of poverty.
California joined 24 other states and the District of Columbia to adopt a state EITC, known as CalEITC, to supplement the federal EITC. In its first year, the CalEITC boosted the income of about 385,000 people, who received close to $200 million from the credit. If you qualify for CalEITC and have a child under the age of 6, you may be eligible for the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC).
Eligibility for both the federal and state EITC is based on your earned income and you must file a tax return to qualify, whether you are required to or not. For tax year 2020, families and individuals who earned wages or self-employment income up to $30,000 may qualify for CalEITC. If your wages are more than $30,000, you may still be eligible for the federal EITC.
Review the chart below to see how much you may get when you file your tax year 2020 return.
| Number of qualifying children | California maximum income | CalEITC (up to) | IRS EITC (up to) |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | $30,000 | $243 | $538 |
| 1 | $30,000 | $1,626 | $3,584 |
| 2 | $30,000 | $2,691 | $5,920 |
| 3 or more | $30,000 | $3,027 | $6,660 |
The Young Child Tax Credit was introduced in tax year 2019. If you qualify for CalEITC and have a child under the age of 6 as of the end of the tax year, you may qualify for up to $1,000 through this credit.
Don’t pay to have your taxes prepared! If you earned less than $66,000 in 2020, call 2-1-1 to schedule a no-cost tax assistance appointment at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site! Due to COVID-19, additional safety protocols will be in place at in-person sites. Select sites will also offer drop-off and drive-up services.
Visit https://www.myfreetaxes.org/online for free online self-filing. There is no income limit to file online.
Effective January 1, 2020, California residents must maintain minimum essential health care coverage for themselves and their dependents. You may have to pay a penalty when filing your tax return unless you have minimum essential health care coverage.
Subsidies are available through Covered California and we can help you find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
