What is the earned income tax credit for married filing jointly?
Henry Morales
Published May 23, 2026
How much can I earn and still qualify?
| If you have: | Your earned income (and adjusted gross income) must be less than: | Your maximum credit will be: |
|---|---|---|
| No qualifying children | $15,820 ($21,710 if married and filing a joint return) | $538 |
| 1 qualifying child | $41,756 ($47,446 if married and filing a joint return) | $3,584 |
Can the noncustodial parent claim Earned Income Credit?
The EIC is a refundable tax credit for low to-moderate-income taxpayers. A non-custodial parent can not claim EIC for a child that he or she has been given permission to claim as a dependent by a custodial parent. You may still be able to claim the credit, even if you do not have a qualifying child.
Can a single person claim the earned income tax credit?
If your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is equal to or more than the amounts listed below, you cannot claim the EIC. If your filing status is Single: Your AGI must be less than $15,820 if he or she has no children; $41,756 with one child; $46,703 with two children; and $50,162 with three or more children.
Can a spouse claim combat pay as earned income?
Your client’s spouse can also choose separately to have his or her full amount of combat pay included in earned income. That means if single, your client cannot include only half of the amount to maximize the credit. If married, your client can claim the full amount of the nontaxable combat pay as earned income and your client’s spouse choose zero.
How are earned income and unearned income determined?
The IRS determines your responsibility to file based on your gross income, which consists of both earned and unearned income. This is especially important if you can be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return. Your eligibility for certain tax credits and IRA contributions also depends on how much earned income you have.
What kind of income can I claim as earned income?
There are special rules relating to rental real estate on this issue. If you’re not sure about your situation, you need to consult a tax professional. Finally, taxable scholarships and fellowship grants can also count as earned income. That’s pretty much it for earned income.
