Why don't I qualify for EIC?

The most common reasons people don't qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EIC, are as follows:

• Their AGI, earned income, and/or investment income is too high.
• They have no earned income.
• They're using Married Filing Separately.
• Their dependent doesn't meet the qualifying child criteria (if claiming one).
• They're too young or too old (if not claiming a qualifying child).

In addition, there are several other qualifications that must be met in order to qualify for EIC. The full list of these qualifications can be found here.