Free and Simplified Tax Filing

Get Money Back with the Illinois Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Credit

01. 27. 2025

New Child Tax Credit and Expanded EITC Deliver Hundreds in Relief to Illinois Taxpayers

What are these credits?

The Earned Income Credit (EIC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC) put money directly back in the pockets of hardworking Illinois families. These programs provide bigger tax refunds, helping families thrive, workers seize new opportunities, and local economies grow.

  • Illinois’ Earned Income Credit expands on the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), giving eligible workers extra cash during tax season.
  • In 2025, Illinois is offering the first-ever Illinois Child Tax Credit, providing hundreds of dollars to families with at least one child under the age of 12.

Why do these credits matter?

These programs have a significant impact:

Families use their refunds to pay for rent, utilities, school supplies, and other essentials.

  • Every dollar spent on refundable credits saves Illinois $10 in long-term costs by improving family stability and local economic health.
  • These credits are life-changing for families and boost participation in the economy.

Eligibility Overview

Earned Income Tax Credit

  • All who qualify for the federal EITC are eligible for the Illinois EIC, plus those under 24, over 65, and individuals who file with an ITIN number.
  • Income threshold: Up to $70,000 (depending on household size and dependents).

Child Tax Credit

  • Available to families that qualify for the EITC with at least one child under 12.
  • In 2025, families will receive a 20% boost to their Illinois EIC (equivalent to $150-$300).
  • In 2026, the benefit doubles to a 40% boost ($300-$600).

What you need to do:

  • File Your Taxes: Make sure to include all eligible dependents.
  • Claim Your Credits: You’re automatically eligible for the Illinois EIC if you qualify for the federal EITC.
  • Access Free Resources: The IRS is offering Direct File in Illinois for the first time: this is an easy, simple, and free way to file both federal and state taxes while claiming every credit available to you.