Taxes, Credits & Getting Ready to File for EITC
What DC residents should know about EITC, credits, and filing preparation
Financially Fit DC | Educational Session
Presented by: Hope Brown, The Tax Minded Bookkeeper
Prepared for: District of Columbia Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB)
About Your Presenter
The Tax Minded Bookkeeper
Hope Brown, MSA
Hope Brown is the owner of The Tax Minded Bookkeeper, an accounting services firm that supports individuals and small business owners with tax readiness, bookkeeping, and financial organization.
She works closely with clients to help them understand their financial information, prepare for filing, and maintain accurate records that support compliance and financial clarity.
Hope is a licensed tax professional and was recognized as a 2025 AICPA & CIMA Global Women to Watch Honoree for her leadership in advancing sound financial practices and financial empowerment.
This session is provided for educational purposes only.
Who Is This Session For?
  • DC residents who are W-2 employees
  • First-time or occasional tax filers
  • Low- to moderate-income individuals and families
  • Anyone looking to better understand tax credits and filing basics related to EITC
What Is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)?
Refundable Credit
A refundable tax credit means you may receive money back even if you don't owe taxes
For People Who Work
Designed to support individuals and families who work and earn income
Increases Refunds
Can increase your tax refund or reduce the amount of taxes you owe
File to Claim
You must file a tax return to claim this credit—it's not automatic
Federal EITC vs DC EITC
Understanding the difference between federal and DC tax credits helps you claim all the benefits you're entitled to receive.
Federal EITC
  • Claimed on your IRS federal tax return
  • Administered by the Internal Revenue Service
  • Based on federal income and eligibility rules
  • Separate from state or local credits
DC EITC
  • Claimed on your DC return (Form D-40)
  • Administered by the Office of Tax and Revenue
  • Has its own eligibility requirements
  • Must file a DC return to receive this benefit

Key Message: Qualifying federally often leads to qualifying locally—but you must file both returns to receive both credits.
Federal EITC at a Glance (2025)
The maximum credit amounts vary based on the number of qualifying children in your household. These amounts change annually and depend on your income and filing status.
No Children
Up to $649
For qualifying workers without children
1 Child
Up to $4,328
For families with one qualifying child
2 Children
Up to $7,152
For families with two qualifying children
3+ Children
Up to $8,046
For families with three or more qualifying children
These are maximum amounts. Your actual credit depends on your specific income, filing status, and family situation. Always check current year guidelines or consult with a tax professional.
Who May Qualify for DC EITC
Income Level Matters
Your total income for the year affects eligibility and credit amount
Filing Status & Family Situation
How you file and your household composition play important roles
Federal Qualification Connection
Most people who qualify for federal EITC also qualify for DC EITC
DC-Specific Expansions
DC has expanded eligibility beyond federal rules in certain situations
Residency Requirement
You must meet DC residency and income requirements to qualify
Important DC-Specific Note: ITIN Holders
The District of Columbia has unique provisions that may benefit residents who file with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Expanded Eligibility
Some DC residents with an ITIN may qualify for DC EITC, even if they do not qualify for the federal EITC
DC-Specific Rules Apply
Eligibility is determined using DC rules and Form D-40 instructions, which differ from federal requirements
Seek Professional Guidance
This information is for awareness only. Individual situations vary, so consider consulting a tax professional
Understanding Income, Deductions & Common Questions
Getting familiar with basic tax concepts helps you navigate the filing process with confidence and make informed decisions.
Gross Income vs Taxable Income
Gross income is your total earnings before any deductions. Taxable income is what remains after allowable deductions are applied.
Deductions Reduce Taxable Income
Deductions lower the amount of income that's subject to tax. Common deductions include the standard deduction and certain expenses.
Keep It Simple
Most people do not need complex tax strategies or sophisticated strategies. Standard deductions work well for many filers.
Documentation Matters
Keeping accurate records of income, expenses, and relevant documents makes filing easier and more accurate.
DC Health Coverage Requirement
Awareness Only
Washington, DC has a local health coverage requirement that applies to most residents. This requirement is separate from federal health insurance rules.
Local Requirement
DC residents must maintain qualifying health coverage throughout the year or qualify for an exemption
Separate from Federal Rules
This DC requirement exists independently of federal health insurance regulations
Exemptions May Apply
Certain situations may qualify you for an exemption from this requirement

This is a reminder only. Individual situations vary, and you should review current DC requirements or consult a professional for guidance specific to your circumstances.
What to Gather & Where to Get Help
Documents to Gather
  • W-2 forms and other income documents from employers
  • Photo identification (driver's license or state ID)
  • Social Security cards or ITIN documents for you and dependents
  • Health coverage forms (Form 1095-A, B, or C if applicable)
  • Prior-year tax return if you have one available
  • Dependent information and documentation if applicable
Resources for Help
IRS EITC Assistant
Online tool to check potential eligibility
MyTax.DC.gov
DC's official tax portal for forms and information
Free Filing Assistance (VITA)
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites offer free help for qualifying taxpayers
Questions & Next Steps
1
Review What You've Learned
Take time to review the key concepts about EITC, credits, and filing requirements covered today
2
Gather Your Documents
Start collecting your W-2s, identification, and other materials you'll need for filing
3
Explore Your Options
Visit the resources mentioned today or seek assistance from qualified professionals
4
File Both Returns
Remember to file both federal and DC returns to claim all credits you're entitled to receive
We're here to answer your questions and help clarify any concepts that may be unclear. Your financial well-being matters, and understanding your tax options is an important step forward.
Connect With Us
The Tax Minded Bookkeeper
We're here to support your financial journey with professional tax and bookkeeping services.
Tax Preparation Services
Professional assistance with federal and DC tax returns, ensuring accuracy and maximizing your credits
Bookkeeping & Financial Records
Organized financial management to keep your business or personal finances on track year-round
Financial Education & Planning
Guidance and resources to help you understand your finances and make informed decisions
Scan the code or visit our website to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.