The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a valuable benefit for workers and households with low to moderate incomes. It helps reduce the amount of taxes owed and, in many cases, provides a refund. If you qualify for EITC, you must claim it on your federal tax return to receive the benefit. The 2025 tax season started on January 27 and will end on April 15, so taxpayers still have time to file and claim their refunds.
However, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) cannot issue EITC refunds before mid-February. This delay applies to the entire refund, not just the EITC portion. If you filed your return early and met the necessary requirements, you may have already received your refund by March 3.
Payment
To claim the EITC, taxpayers need to file either Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return) or Form 1040-SR (U.S. Tax Return for Seniors). Once the IRS processes the return, it typically takes around 21 days for the payment to arrive. Those who filed electronically, selected direct deposit, and had no issues with their return can expect their refunds within this timeframe.
For those waiting for their EITC payments in March, here are the expected deposit dates based on when they filed their taxes:
| Filing Date | Expected Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| February 16 | March 9 |
| February 17 | March 10 |
| February 18 | March 11 |
| February 19 | March 12 |
| February 20 | March 13 |
| February 21 | March 14 |
| February 22 | March 15 |
These dates are estimates and may vary based on the IRS processing time, potential errors in the tax return, or additional verification requirements.
Checking
Taxpayers can check the status of their EITC refund using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. This online service provides real-time updates on the processing of a tax return. To use it, you need:
- Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.)
- Exact refund amount claimed on the tax return
Updates are available within 24 hours of e-filing or four weeks after mailing a paper return.
Amending
If a taxpayer was eligible for the EITC but did not claim it on their original tax return, they can still receive the credit by filing an amended return. This requires completing Form 1040-X (Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return). The IRS allows taxpayers to amend returns within three years from the original filing deadline.
Filing an amended return may take longer to process, but it ensures that eligible taxpayers receive their full refund. The IRS recommends using electronic filing to speed up the process.
Tax season is an important time for many families relying on refunds to cover expenses. By knowing the EITC refund timeline and following the necessary steps, taxpayers can ensure they receive their payments as soon as possible. If you are eligible for the credit but haven’t claimed it, consider filing an amended return to take advantage of this benefit.
FAQs
When does tax season end?
The 2025 tax season ends on April 15.
How can I check my EITC refund status?
Use the IRS ‘Where’s My Refund?’ tool online.
Why is my EITC refund delayed?
The IRS cannot issue EITC refunds before mid-February.
What form do I need to claim EITC?
File Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR to claim the EITC.
Can I amend my tax return to claim EITC?
Yes, file Form 1040-X to amend your return and claim EITC.
