Money earned in work release

[bigjames1982]

If I filed taxes, my W2 and the IRS sent me a letter stating that e.i.c. wouldn't count for money earned in a work release center in Florida. So how do I fix my taxes to still get a return? Do I need to amend it? Will the IRS fix the issue and send me my return? Thank you in advance 

[TomD8]

Did the letter you received from the IRS contain any instructions as to how you should proceed?

[bigjames1982]

Just a little confused on how this all works I've never had this issue I'm just curious i if I will still be receiving a tax return from that year even though I worked in the work release I worked online and shows that you do get it what from being in worker leaks but they're saying I don't so I'm not sure just confused this is a letter that I got any help as much appreciated

[TomD8 · Accepted solution]

Unfortunately, money earned while an inmate in a penal institution, including money earned in a work release program or a halfway house, does not count for purposes of the Earned Income Credit.

[bigjames1982]

But does it count as earned income. Or is earned income credit the same as the money you made through the year 

[TomD8]

Yes, it still counts as earned, taxable income.  It just doesn't count for purposes of the "earned income credit".  This video explains the "earned income credit":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vO47tu9CSkU