Eligible participants can receive up to $1,290 this year

The Department of Revenue will begin accepting applications for the Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) for tax year 2024 on Feb. 1. This year, the credit provides payments up to $1,290 to individuals and families who meet certain eligibility requirements.

Since the WFTC program launched in 2023, over 359,000 refunds have been issued totaling more than $263.4 million. The program returns a portion of sales tax paid each year and is modeled after the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which is considered one of the best tools for reducing poverty nationwide. Last calendar year, the WFTC team issued $135.9 million in refunds to nearly 158,000 families with children, resulting in more than 287,000 children benefiting from the program.

“That’s a real difference for people who need it the most,” Revenue Director Drew Shirk said. “This year we want to reach even more. This credit isn’t just for families, it is available to anyone who meets the eligibility requirements which means couples, and individuals can receive it too. So please check if you qualify and help us spread the word about this vital program.”

Apply for past periods

Applicants can apply for WFTC refunds they were eligible for, but did not previously claim, for up to three calendar years from when their federal tax return was due. For example: In 2025, the agency will accept applications for the 2024, 2023, and 2022 tax year credits. Claiming all three years can receive up to a maximum of $3,745.

About the credit

• Provides payments up to $1,290 for tax year 2024 to individuals and families who meet eligibility requirements.
• The WFTC refund is in addition to what someone may receive under the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) program.
• The WFTC is a recurring program and can be applied for each year you meet the eligibility criteria.
• The application period begins Feb. 1, 2025, for the 2024 tax year and applications will be accepted through Dec. 31, 2028.
• Recipients can request their refund through direct deposit, paper check, or prepaid debit card.

Eligibility

Individuals and families are eligible for the Working Families Tax Credit if they meet all the following requirements:

• Have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
• Lived in Washington state a minimum of 183 days (over half the year) in 2024. See Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about residency to learn more.
• Are 25-64 years old OR have a qualifying child in 2024.
• Filed a 2024 federal tax return.
• Eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit on their 2024 tax return (or would meet the requirements for EITC but are filing with an ITIN).
• Meet certain income requirements.

Tax Year 2024 income thresholds and credit amount*

Eligibility for the WFTC is based on income and family size. The maximum credit amount for a single person is $325, with an increase of $315 for the first qualifying child and $325 children two and three, up to a maximum of $1,290 for a family with three or more children.

Ways to file

Applications are available online and by paper. Revenue has also partnered with multiple tax preparation software vendors so that applicants can file their WFTC application when they file their federal tax return.

Resources

• Online applications at WFTC.wa.gov. Available in English and Spanish.
• Paper applications available in English and 12 other languages.
• Website: WFTC.wa.gov.
• Local DOR field office.
• Talk to our team:
• Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT. (closed Wednesday 8 to 9 a.m.)
• 360-763-7300, TTY dial 711.
• Interpreters available.
• Third-party tax preparation software.
• Visit WFTC.wa.gov/resources for a list of software providers.

The Department of Revenue is Washington state’s primary tax agency, nationally recognized as a trusted leader in tax administration and customer service. Revenue administers nearly 60 categories of taxes that help fund vital public services. It also oversees programs that return money to the public, including the Working Families Tax Credit and Unclaimed Property.