State tax filing

You don't need dependents to get the Earned Income Tax Credit.

"To qualify for the EITC, you must:

• Have earned income
• Have investment income below the limit
• Have a valid Social Security number by the due date of your return (including extensions)
• Be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien all year
• Not file Form 2555, Foreign Earned Income
• Meet certain rules if you are separated from your spouse and not filing a joint tax return"

See the IRS circular on Who qualifies for the Earned Income Tax Credit