It depends.
To help you determine whether your child is considered developmentally disabled for the purpose of claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), there are two important things to do:
Prove a Permanent and Total Disability
You must prove that your child has a permanent or total disability.
To prove your child's disability, get a letter from their doctor, healthcare provider or any social service program or agency that can verify their disability.
Determine if you Meet the Requirements
The IRS has an EITC Assistant Tool that will help you determine if you meet the requirements to qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit.
To qualify for the EITC, you must:
- Show proof of earned income.
- Have investment income below $3,650 in the tax year you claim the credit.
- Have a valid Social Security number.
- Claim a certain filing status.
- Be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien all year.
Your child is 5 years old now, but the qualifying child you claim for the EITC can be any age if they:
- Have a permanent and total disability and
- Have a valid Social Security number
Here is a link for more information about disability and the Earned Income Tax Credit.
Keep in Mind:
Military and clergy should review Special EITC Rules because using this credit may affect other government benefits. Come back and ask us more questions if you need more help with the military concerns.
