topic Re: Case assistance in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

Case assistance

Pugglelover — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 04:49:15 GMT

Are we required to file a tax return the only income is cash assistance?

Since cash assistance is the only income can we qualify for EIC and Child Tax Credits?

Re: Case assistance

xmasbaby0 — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 19:07:04 GMT

No you do not enter public assistance on a tax return. And no, it would not qualify you for earned income credit or the child tax credit. Those credits are based on having income from working. You need income from a W-2 or self-employment income.

Re: Cash assistance

Pugglelover — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 19:33:52 GMT

The should I file taxes? On the IRS.gov site says I should file because a refund will be generated. Is this true to your knowledge? Should a return be filed if cash assistance is the only income and you have 2 kids?

Re: Cash assistance

DoninGA — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 19:36:40 GMT

@Pugglelover wrote:

The should I file taxes? On the IRS.gov site says I should file because a refund will be generated. Is this true to your knowledge? Should a return be filed if cash assistance is the only income and you have 2 kids?

If the only income you received was from State Aid, that is not entered on a tax return. So there is no need for you to file a return, with or without dependents.