how do you qualify for the earned income tax credit 
in order to qualify for the earned income tax credit a taxpayer must be a u s citizen or resident alien for the entire tax year with a social security card that was issued before they file their tax return in addition they must have worked and had an earned income that was lower than the eitc income threshold for the tax year investment income must also be below a certain limit and the taxpayer cannot claim foreign earned income that year members of the military clergy and dependents with disabilities also have special rules 1the bottom linethe eitc is a federal tax credit designed to provide financial assistance to low to moderate income working individuals and families it reduces the amount of taxes owed and can result in a refund for eligible taxpayers the credit amount depends on income filing status and the number of qualifying children 