{"id":30,"date":"2025-03-25T18:57:59","date_gmt":"2025-03-25T23:57:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/getmypaymentil.daveschmidt.co\/?page_id=30"},"modified":"2026-09-18T15:15:52","modified_gmt":"2026-09-18T20:15:52","slug":"tax-filing-help","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/tax-filing-help\/","title":{"rendered":"Ayuda para la declaraci\u00f3n de impuestos"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxl, 5rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:center;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:center;}.kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-lg, 4rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);max-width:var( --global-content-width, 1411px );padding-left:var(--global-content-edge-padding);padding-right:var(--global-content-edge-padding);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-right:0rem;padding-left:0rem;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(55% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-lg, 4rem) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(45% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-lg, 4rem) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 2fr) minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_6ed4bf-62 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-left-golden kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-middle kb-theme-content-width\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_01af69-3f > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_01af69-3f > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_01af69-3f > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_01af69-3f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_01af69-3f > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_01af69-3f > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_01af69-3f{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_01af69-3f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_01af69-3f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_01af69-3f\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_d88775-c2, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_d88775-c2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_d88775-c2\"]{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_d88775-c2 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_d88775-c2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_d88775-c2\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_d88775-c2 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_d88775-c2[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_d88775-c2\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h1 class=\"kt-adv-heading30_d88775-c2 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading has-theme-palette-3-color has-text-color\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_d88775-c2\">Need More Tax Help?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has--font-size\">Everyone needs a little help sometimes. Free, secure tax filing services are available online and in-person for individuals and families under certain income thresholds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has--font-size\">But first, get answers to your questions in our Frequently Asked Questions section below.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_a38ae4-23 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_a38ae4-23\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image30_c430c9-43 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;border-top-left-radius:16px;border-top-right-radius:16px;border-bottom-right-radius:16px;border-bottom-left-radius:16px;}.kb-image30_c430c9-43 img.kb-img, .kb-image30_c430c9-43 .kb-img img{border-top-left-radius:16px;border-top-right-radius:16px;border-bottom-right-radius:16px;border-bottom-left-radius:16px;box-shadow:0px 4px 30px 0px rgba(75, 79, 88, 0.5);object-position:50% 50%;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-image.kb-image30_c430c9-43:not(.kb-specificity-added):not(.kb-extra-specificity-added){margin-right:0px;margin-left:0px;}.kb-image30_c430c9-43.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image30_c430c9-43 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:420px;width:100%;}.kb-image30_c430c9-43{max-width:420px;}}<\/style>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image30_c430c9-43 size-thumbnail kb-image-is-ratio-size\"><div class=\"kb-is-ratio-image kb-image-ratio-square\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/tax-filing-help-poster-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"Two ladies having a light hearted conversation\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-248\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/tax-filing-help-poster-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/tax-filing-help-poster-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/tax-filing-help-poster.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_1119a9-5e{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_1119a9-5e > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_1119a9-5e > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id30_1119a9-5e > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);max-width:1000px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;padding-top:0rem;padding-right:0rem;padding-bottom:0rem;padding-left:0rem;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id30_1119a9-5e > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_1119a9-5e > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id30_1119a9-5e > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_1119a9-5e alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);}.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_ea4a21-cf\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:center;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:center;}.kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:0rem;padding-right:0rem;padding-bottom:0rem;padding-left:0rem;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(20% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(80% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8 > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_88c3c5-e8 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-middle\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_935872-25 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_935872-25 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_935872-25 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_935872-25 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_935872-25 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_935872-25 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_935872-25{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_935872-25 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_935872-25 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_935872-25\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:150px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c{max-width:150px;}.image-is-svg.kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c{-webkit-flex:0 1 100%;flex:0 1 100%;}.image-is-svg.kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c img{width:100%;}.kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-image.kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c:not(.kb-specificity-added):not(.kb-extra-specificity-added){margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}}<\/style>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image30_3c9cd7-2c size-full image-is-svg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"100\" height=\"100\" src=\"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/house-icon.svg\" alt=\"An illustrated house\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-362\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_3c7b1b-5f\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"]{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"] a, .kt-adv-heading-link30_bf32b6-38, .kt-adv-heading-link30_bf32b6-38 .kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"]{color:var(--global-palette1, #3182CE);}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"] a:hover, .kt-adv-heading-link30_bf32b6-38:hover, .kt-adv-heading-link30_bf32b6-38:hover .kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"]{color:var(--global-palette2, #2B6CB0);}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"] a, a.kb-advanced-heading-link.kt-adv-heading-link30_bf32b6-38{text-decoration:underline;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\"] a:hover, a.kb-advanced-heading-link.kt-adv-heading-link30_bf32b6-38:hover{text-decoration:underline;}<\/style>\n<h2 class=\"kt-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading hls-underline\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_bf32b6-38\">Looking for tax filing help from a trusted nonprofit partner? <\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_8ef635-09{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_8ef635-09 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_8ef635-09 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id30_8ef635-09 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id30_8ef635-09 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_8ef635-09 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id30_8ef635-09 > .kt-row-column-wrap{row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_8ef635-09 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;flex-direction:column-reverse;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_2c733a-b0 kb-section-sm-dir-vertical-reverse\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>You can check eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC) and receive help filing for free through Code for America\u2019s <a href=\"http:\/\/www.GetYourRefund.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.GetYourRefund.org<\/a> website. They can also help connect you to local tax volunteers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also find an in-person Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) location near you by visiting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/individuals\/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the IRS website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Free filing assistance is also available through United Way&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/myfreetaxes.com\/\">MyFreeTaxes.com<\/a>. You can file yourself using their tool if you earn $89,000 per year or receive help if you earn under $69,000 per year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For people with more complicated tax issues,<\/strong> local resources are available to help you file for free. Contact <a href=\"https:\/\/www.goladderup.org\/our-services\/tax-assistance\/\">LadderUp<\/a> for additional help in Chicago. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Please note, more in-person help is available during the traditional tax season between January and April, than at other times of the year.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_c24806-0c{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_c24806-0c > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_c24806-0c > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id30_c24806-0c > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);max-width:1000px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;padding-top:0rem;padding-right:0rem;padding-bottom:0rem;padding-left:0rem;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id30_c24806-0c > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_c24806-0c > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id30_c24806-0c > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_c24806-0c alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);}.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_57cced-3e{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_57cced-3e > .kt-inside-inner-col{border-top:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-right:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-bottom:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);border-left:5px solid var(--global-palette6, #718096);flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_57cced-3e\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:center;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:center;}.kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:0rem;padding-right:0rem;padding-bottom:0rem;padding-left:0rem;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(20% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(80% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_600eae-fb alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-middle\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_6d2271-8c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_6d2271-8c\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image30_110427-67.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image30_110427-67 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:150px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image30_110427-67.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image30_110427-67 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image30_110427-67{max-width:150px;}.image-is-svg.kb-image30_110427-67{-webkit-flex:0 1 100%;flex:0 1 100%;}.image-is-svg.kb-image30_110427-67 img{width:100%;}.kb-image30_110427-67 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-image.kb-image30_110427-67:not(.kb-specificity-added):not(.kb-extra-specificity-added){margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}}<\/style>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image30_110427-67 size-full image-is-svg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"100\" height=\"100\" src=\"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/checklist-with-dollar-sign.svg\" alt=\"Illustrated checklist with money sign\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-243\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column30_1879f0-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_1879f0-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_1879f0-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_1879f0-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_1879f0-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_1879f0-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_1879f0-99{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_1879f0-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_1879f0-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_1879f0-99\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"]{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"] a, .kt-adv-heading-link30_3c89b9-50, .kt-adv-heading-link30_3c89b9-50 .kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"]{color:var(--global-palette1, #3182CE);}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"] a:hover, .kt-adv-heading-link30_3c89b9-50:hover, .kt-adv-heading-link30_3c89b9-50:hover .kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"]{color:var(--global-palette2, #2B6CB0);}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"] a, a.kb-advanced-heading-link.kt-adv-heading-link30_3c89b9-50{text-decoration:underline;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\"] a:hover, a.kb-advanced-heading-link.kt-adv-heading-link30_3c89b9-50:hover{text-decoration:underline;}<\/style>\n<h2 class=\"kt-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading hls-underline\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_3c89b9-50\">If you haven\u2019t filed taxes<br>in a while<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_46e54a-f4{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_46e54a-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_46e54a-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id30_46e54a-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id30_46e54a-f4 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_46e54a-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id30_46e54a-f4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_46e54a-f4 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_e34802-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_e34802-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_e34802-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_e34802-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_e34802-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_e34802-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_e34802-a4{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_e34802-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_e34802-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;flex-direction:column-reverse;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_e34802-a4 kb-section-sm-dir-vertical-reverse\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p><strong>You can claim a refund from up to 3 years back! <\/strong>If you earn less than $67,000, you may be eligible for free tax help through Code for America\u2019s Get Your Refund program: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.GetYourRefund.org\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"www.GetYourRefund.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.GetYourRefund.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The website allows you to check EITC and CTC eligibility, as well as get connected to free online filing or a volunteer tax preparer for additional help. If you haven\u2019t filed taxes any time in the last three years, the team can also help you claim past tax refunds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several tax software providers that participate in the IRS Free File program that also offer prior-year tax software, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.olt.com\/main\/home\/products.asp#Prior%20Year%20Federal%20Tax%20Return\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">FreeTaxUSA<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/support.taxslayer.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360015909491-How-can-I-prepare-a-prior-year-2019-2018-2017-return-\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TaxSlayer<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Many charge for state returns. However, you can complete Illinois state taxes for free using the Illinois Department of Revenue&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/mytax.illinois.gov\/_\/\">MyTaxIllinois<\/a> online tool.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxl, 5rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:center;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:center;}.kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-lg, 4rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);max-width:1000px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);padding-right:0rem;padding-left:0rem;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(55% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-lg, 4rem) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(45% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-lg, 4rem) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 2fr) minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-wrap.wp-block-kadence-rowlayout.kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca{margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-lg, 3rem);}.kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_19c8a7-ca alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-left-golden kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-middle\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_f44789-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_f44789-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_f44789-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_f44789-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_f44789-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_f44789-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_f44789-a1{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_f44789-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_f44789-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_f44789-a1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4\"]{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<h2 class=\"kt-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading has-theme-palette-3-color has-text-color\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading30_0854e6-a4\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has--font-size\">Filing taxes can be hard, especially when you have questions you can\u2019t answer. Here are answers to some common questions.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_8e76aa-86 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_8e76aa-86\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image30_2366f7-bd .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;border-top-left-radius:16px;border-top-right-radius:16px;border-bottom-right-radius:16px;border-bottom-left-radius:16px;}.kb-image30_2366f7-bd img.kb-img, .kb-image30_2366f7-bd .kb-img img{border-top-left-radius:16px;border-top-right-radius:16px;border-bottom-right-radius:16px;border-bottom-left-radius:16px;box-shadow:0px 4px 30px 0px rgba(75, 79, 88, 0.5);object-position:50% 50%;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-image.kb-image30_2366f7-bd:not(.kb-specificity-added):not(.kb-extra-specificity-added){margin-right:0px;margin-left:0px;}.kb-image30_2366f7-bd.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image30_2366f7-bd .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:420px;width:100%;}.kb-image30_2366f7-bd{max-width:420px;}}<\/style>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image30_2366f7-bd size-thumbnail kb-image-is-ratio-size\"><div class=\"kb-is-ratio-image kb-image-ratio-square\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mom-daughter-wrestling-smiling-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"A mom and daughter smiling and having fun\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-495\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mom-daughter-wrestling-smiling-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mom-daughter-wrestling-smiling-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/mom-daughter-wrestling-smiling.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id30_a9da12-b4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id30_a9da12-b4 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id30_a9da12-b4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);max-width:1000px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id30_a9da12-b4 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id30_a9da12-b4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id30_a9da12-b4 > .kt-row-column-wrap{row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><section class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id30_a9da12-b4 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-1-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;flex-direction:column-reverse;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column30_f5b5f7-70 kb-section-sm-dir-vertical-reverse\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:10px;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-panel-inner{border-top:0px solid transparent;border-right:1px solid transparent;border-bottom:1px solid transparent;border-left:1px solid transparent;background:#ffffff;padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header{border-top:2px solid #c5c2c1;border-right:0px solid #eeeeee;border-bottom:0px solid #c5c2c1;border-left:0px solid #eeeeee;border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;background:#ffffff;font-size:28px;line-height:1.5em;font-family:Roboto;font-weight:700;color:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-md, 2rem);}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basiccircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclosecircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrowcircle )  > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:after, .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basiccircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclosecircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrowcircle )  > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:before{background:var(--global-palette6, #718096);}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger{background:var(--global-palette6, #718096);}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:after, .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:before{background:#ffffff;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header:hover, \n\t\t\t\tbody:not(.hide-focus-outline) .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible{color:var(--global-palette5, #4A5568);background:#ffffff;border-top:2px solid var(--global-palette5, #4A5568);border-right-color:#878787;border-right-style:solid;border-bottom:0px solid #878787;border-left-color:#878787;border-left-style:solid;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basiccircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclosecircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrowcircle ) .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:hover .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:after, .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basiccircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclosecircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrowcircle ) .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:hover .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:before, body:not(.hide-focus-outline) .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basiccircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclosecircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrowcircle ) .kt-blocks-accordion--visible .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:after, body:not(.hide-focus-outline) .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basiccircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclosecircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrowcircle ) .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:before{background:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:hover .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger, body:not(.hide-focus-outline) .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger{background:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:hover .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:after, .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:hover .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:before, body:not(.hide-focus-outline) .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:after, body:not(.hide-focus-outline) .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:before{background:#ffffff;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible,\n\t\t\t\t.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header.kt-accordion-panel-active{color:var(--global-palette5, #4A5568);background:#ffffff;border-top:2px solid var(--global-palette5, #4A5568);border-right-color:#eeeeee;border-right-style:solid;border-bottom:0px solid #eeeeee;border-left-color:#0e9cd1;border-left-style:solid;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basiccircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclosecircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrowcircle )  > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header.kt-accordion-panel-active .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:after, .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basiccircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclosecircle ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrowcircle )  > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header.kt-accordion-panel-active .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:before{background:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-blocks-accordion-header.kt-accordion-panel-active .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger{background:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-blocks-accordion-header.kt-accordion-panel-active .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:after, .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1:not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-basic ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-xclose ):not( .kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow ) .kt-blocks-accordion-header.kt-accordion-panel-active .kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger:before{background:#ffffff;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-panel-inner{border-top:0px solid transparent;border-right:1px solid transparent;border-bottom:1px solid transparent;border-left:1px solid transparent;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header{border-top:2px solid #c5c2c1;border-right:0px solid #eeeeee;border-bottom:0px solid #c5c2c1;border-left:0px solid #eeeeee;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header:hover, \n\t\t\t\tbody:not(.hide-focus-outline) .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible{border-top:2px solid var(--global-palette5, #4A5568);border-right-color:#878787;border-right-style:solid;border-bottom:0px solid #878787;border-left-color:#878787;border-left-style:solid;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible,\n\t\t\t\t.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header.kt-accordion-panel-active{border-top:2px solid var(--global-palette5, #4A5568);border-right-color:#eeeeee;border-right-style:solid;border-bottom:0px solid #eeeeee;border-left-color:#0e9cd1;border-left-style:solid;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap{display:block;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap .kt-accordion-pane:not(:first-child){margin-top:10px;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-panel-inner{border-top:0px solid transparent;border-right:1px solid transparent;border-bottom:1px solid transparent;border-left:1px solid transparent;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header{border-top:2px solid #c5c2c1;border-right:0px solid #eeeeee;border-bottom:0px solid #c5c2c1;border-left:0px solid #eeeeee;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header:hover, \n\t\t\t\tbody:not(.hide-focus-outline) .kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible{border-top:2px solid var(--global-palette5, #4A5568);border-right-color:#878787;border-right-style:solid;border-bottom:0px solid #878787;border-left-color:#878787;border-left-style:solid;}.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header:focus-visible,\n\t\t\t\t.kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 > .kt-accordion-inner-wrap > .wp-block-kadence-pane > .kt-accordion-header-wrap > .kt-blocks-accordion-header.kt-accordion-panel-active{border-top:2px solid var(--global-palette5, #4A5568);border-right-color:#eeeeee;border-right-style:solid;border-bottom:0px solid #eeeeee;border-left-color:#0e9cd1;border-left-style:solid;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-accordion alignnone\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-wrap kt-accordion-id30_a14af3-f1 kt-accordion-has-13-panes kt-active-pane-0 kt-accordion-block kt-pane-header-alignment-left kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow kt-accodion-icon-side-right\" style=\"max-width:none\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-inner-wrap\" data-allow-multiple-open=\"false\" data-start-open=\"none\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-1 kt-pane30_4ad8cf-a8\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Who in the family can claim dependent children for the EITC or CTC?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>Children should be claimed by only one taxpayer or married couple filing jointly. In order to claim a child for the purposes of the EITC or CTC, your child must live in the same home as you in the U.S. for more than half of the tax year. In the case of parents who are no longer together or married, the parent the child lived with for more nights during the year should claim the child on their taxes. If children split their time equally between parents, then the custodial parent is the parent with the higher adjusted gross income. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Grandparents or other family members are eligible to claim a child for the CTC or EITC as long as one of the parents does not live with the child for the majority of the year. In other words, grandparents or other family members who frequently care for children should not claim them unless they are the primary caregiver. If multiple family members can claim a child, then <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/credits-deductions\/individuals\/earned-income-tax-credit\/qualifying-child-rules\">further qualifications<\/a> narrow down who can make the claim.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-2 kt-pane30_afd02d-36\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">How will I receive the refund?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>Generally, if you are eligible for a refund, you will receive your refund within 21 days if you filed an e-return, within 6 weeks or more if you sent your return by mail, or longer if your return needs corrections or extra review. You have the option of receiving a paper check, a direct deposit, or a prepaid debit card. However, the IRS is phasing out paper checks (find more information <a href=\"https:\/\/www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov\/news\/tax-tips\/tips-on-electronic-payment-options-available-to-taxpayers-as-the-irs-phases-out-paper-checks\/2025\/10\/\">here<\/a>). If you need assistance in opening a bank account, <a href=\"https:\/\/bankonchicago.com\/\">Bank On Chicago<\/a> can provide support.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-3 kt-pane30_9fcc85-55\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">What if my refund goes to a closed account?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>If your refund is sent to a closed account, the amount will be sent back to the IRS, at which point they will issue a paper check to whatever address is listed on your tax return. For more information on how to receive your refund, see these <a href=\"https:\/\/www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov\/news\/tax-tips\/tips-on-electronic-payment-options-available-to-taxpayers-as-the-irs-phases-out-paper-checks\/2025\/10\/\">tips from the Taxpayer Advocate<\/a> on how to get your payment. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-11 kt-pane30_85d1e4-e7\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Moved or in between homes?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>If you have moved within the last year, there are a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/faqs\/irs-procedures\/address-changes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">number of ways<\/a> that you can update your address with the IRS or USPS, including through an IRS form, using your new address on your tax return, providing a written statement, or an oral notification. You also have the option of receiving your refund through Direct Deposit rather than a mailed check.If you are experiencing homelessness, you may use a PO Box as your address, or the address of a trusted friend or family member. If you do not have a good address option, you may also request your refund through direct deposit (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.bankonchicago.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BankOn<\/a> is available to help you open a safe, affordable bank account if you do not currently have an account.) See other tips for ensuring you receive your refund <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1wjcIzKwYuHfvsJJBvgDN8X7e_pNOgZBEJQoC1le-auE\/edit?tab=t.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-12 kt-pane30_2c2c48-57\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Were your documents lost or stolen?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>If your identifying documents have been lost or stolen, or you lack a birth certificate, ID, or other needed documents to prove your identity, <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1wjcIzKwYuHfvsJJBvgDN8X7e_pNOgZBEJQoC1le-auE\/edit?tab=t.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">you have other options<\/a> for receiving your refund. Payment apps such as Venmo or Cashapp can take deposited refunds, just be aware that these apps are not always FDIC insured.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-4 kt-pane30_84b820-51\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Someone on my tax return doesn\u2019t have a social security number<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>If someone on your tax return doesn\u2019t have their own social security number, they can apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) by completing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/tin\/itin\/how-to-apply-for-an-itin\">Form W-7<\/a>. Once you have an ITIN, you must file taxes regularly to retain it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>People with ITINs are not eligible for the federal EITC or CTC. In Illinois, people with ITINs ARE eligible for both the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EIC) and the Child Tax Credit (find more information <a href=\"https:\/\/tax.illinois.gov\/programs\/eitc\/qualifications.html\">here<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More information about ITINS can be found from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nilc.org\/resources\/itinfaq\/\">National Immigration Law Center<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-5 kt-pane30_5bf6b3-f9\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Will getting a tax refund impact my public benefits like food stamps or TANF?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>Getting a tax refund should not impact your public benefits like food stamps or TANF, nor should it count against your ability to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-6 kt-pane30_b28672-07\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">What if I don\u2019t have any income?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>You do need to show some level of income to claim the CTC or EITC. But, you may have <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work\">more income that qualifies<\/a> than you think. If you had a side job, a part-time job, did seasonal work, or sold goods online in the last year, then any earnings can count as income. However, you may also need to pay taxes on that income if you don&#8217;t normally receive a traditional W-2 from those employers. Parents of minors may find it worthwhile to file anyway.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-7 kt-pane30_7713c2-a3\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">What about contract or gig work?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>If you had a: side job, part-time job, did seasonal work, sold goods online, did contract work, or did gig work you may need to file taxes. You may have received cash or a 1099 form from your employer for this work. If you did and received more than $400 in a year, you likely need to file taxes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that you may be eligible for tax credits based on that income. Check the requirements for reporting your gig work income <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-8 kt-pane30_997701-c9\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">Are college students eligible?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>College students are eligible for tax credits as long as they are not considered dependents, and are eligible for more money if they have children. Generally, college students who are under 24, attend full-time, and receive significant financial support from their parents are considered dependents. Find more guidance on filing for students <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/individuals\/students\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-9 kt-pane30_6185fa-e3\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">What if a former foster parent or family member is falsely claiming me as a dependent?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>If you have been incorrectly claimed as a dependent by a former foster parent or a family member, you have recourse to resolve the situation. There are steps to address false claims of dependency through the IRS. More information for how to handle this stressful situation may be available through a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/p4134.pdf\">Low Income Taxpayer Clinic<\/a>. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-10 kt-pane30_b2a81d-8a\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">What if I pay child support?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>If you pay child support, that is not considered taxable income. Child support payments are neither taxable to the recipient or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/faqs\/interest-dividends-other-types-of-income\/alimony-child-support-court-awards-damages\/alimony-child-support-court-awards-damages-1\">deductible by the payer. <\/a>If you owe child support, this may increase the taxes you owe. See <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/credits-deductions\/individuals\/earned-income-tax-credit\/qualifying-child-rules\">these guidelines<\/a> for more information on who can claim a child as a dependent for the purposes of tax credits like EITC or CTC.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-13 kt-pane30_725582-33\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\">I\u2019m leaving a domestic violence situation. What should I do to make sure I receive my refund?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>If you are leaving a domestic violence situation, you have <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1wjcIzKwYuHfvsJJBvgDN8X7e_pNOgZBEJQoC1le-auE\/edit?tab=t.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">several options<\/a> to ensure you receive your refund. If you are still legally married with no dependents, you can file married filing separately to avoid contact with your spouse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are legally married with dependents, but you and your spouse have lived apart for the last six months of the year and you provided more than half the upkeep of the house for the dependent, you can file alone as head of household. If you are married filing jointly, both spouses are normally responsible for the tax liability on the tax return. However, innocent spouse relief is an option. A domestic violence victim may not be responsible for the tax, liabilities, and penalty incurred if it all belongs to the other spouse under certain circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need assistance with tax related questions when leaving a domestic violence situation, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/p4134.pdf\">Low Income Taxpayer Clinic<\/a> may be able to help.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/section>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Need More Tax Help? Everyone needs a little help sometimes. Free, secure tax filing services are available online and in-person for individuals and families under certain income thresholds. But first, get answers to your questions in our Frequently Asked Questions section below. Looking for tax filing help from a trusted nonprofit partner? You can check&#8230;<\/p>","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":2,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-30","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"taxonomy_info":[],"featured_image_src_large":false,"author_info":{"display_name":"Meegan Dugan Adell","author_link":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/author\/e93d264b1b2ba20b\/"},"comment_info":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/30","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=30"}],"version-history":[{"count":56,"href":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/30\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":616,"href":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/30\/revisions\/616"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.getmypaymentillinois.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=30"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}