Now that 2023 is underway, many households are preparing for tax season. Keyboards ablaze with frantic efforts to figure out 2022 tax brackets and estimate tax refunds. As a result, it’s wise to learn about tax credits that may reduce your total financial obligation before you file. That way, you can prepare for how the adjustments impact the broader picture. While there are far more tax credits than an article can reasonably list, some are relatively widely used. Here’s a look at tax credits that a more significant number of tax filers are potentially eligible for, what they’re typically worth, and some initial information on qualifying.
What Tax Credits Can I Expect in 2023?
Child Tax Credit
The child tax credit is one of the most commonly claimed ones in the country. Generally, any household with a qualifying child as a dependent is potentially eligible. During the 2022 tax year – which is filed in 2023 – it’s potentially worth $2,000 per qualifying child. As a result, it’s potentially sizeable.
Earned Income Tax Credit
Another widely used tax credit is the earned income tax credit. Eligible taxpayers without children can receive a credit worth up to $500 when they file in 2023.
Child and Dependent Care Credit
While the child and dependent care credit is worth far less than it was in 2021 – when it sat at $8,000 – it’s still a decent amount. Qualifying households are eligible for up to $2,100 when they file their 2022 tax information in 2023.
Retirement Contributions Savings Credit
Individuals with adjusted gross incomes at or below $34,000 ($68,000 for married filing jointly) are potentially eligible for a tax credit related to their retirement savings. It’s worth up to 50 percent of the total contributions to a qualifying account, with the exact amount varying by income and the maximum value set at $1,000 (or $2,000).
American Opportunity Credit
During the first four years of college at a qualifying institution, students are potentially eligible for the American opportunity credit. This is worth up to $2,500 per student and is refundable up to 40 percent. However, it’s only available to individuals with incomes at or below $80,000 ($160,000 for married filing jointly).
Lifetime Learning Credit
The lifetime learning credit helps offset the cost of qualifying tuition or educational expenses for students at eligible institutions. Typically, that includes colleges, universities, and technical schools beyond high school. However, it’s only available to single taxpayers with income at or below $80,000 (or $160,000 for joint filers).
Premium Tax Credit
The premium tax credit helps offset the cost of purchasing health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Generally, it applies to lower or middle-income households, though the number of dependents and other factors do alter eligibility.
Clean Vehicles Tax Credit
Individuals who purchased a qualifying “clean vehicle” – typically an electric vehicle – are potentially eligible for a clean vehicles tax credit. The rules are complex, so not all EVs qualify. However, it’s worth exploring if you purchased an EV in 2022.
Federal Adoption Credit
Households that adopted a child in 2022 are potentially eligible for the federal adoption credit, which is worth up to $14,890 when you file your 2022 return in 2023. Income limits do apply, and it starts to phase out at $223,410. This credit is also non-refundable, so those who spend less on qualifying expenses can only receive up to the amount paid to cover eligible costs.
Credit for Other Dependents
The credit for other dependents allows households with dependents who aren’t eligible for a traditional child tax credit to potentially see some relief on their taxes. Generally, that includes individuals living in the household as dependents who are age 17 or older, and it’s worth $500 per qualifying dependent.
Determining Your Eligibility for Tax Credits
While the information above provides an overview of what it takes to qualify for many common tax credits, the rules are often far more complex than what’s outlined above. As a result, it’s wise to research any tax credits you might be able to use carefully, allowing you to ensure you qualify.
If you have doubts, consider working with a tax preparer this year, as they’re often well-equipped to help you determine if you’re eligible for a tax credit. You can also try tax preparation software, as many of those solutions have built-in guides or questionaries that can point you in the right direction.
Ultimately, being confident that you qualify is essential. Improperly claiming a tax credit comes with consequences, including fees, penalties, and potential criminal charges. As a result, it’s best to consult with an expert if you have any doubts about your eligibility.
Can you think of any other tax credits people may want to check out when filing their taxes in 2023? Have you run into issues with tax credits before and want to tell others about your experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Read More:
- 5 Places to File Your Taxes for Free
- Minors Still Have to Pay Taxes
- Annuities and Taxes: Here’s What You Need to Know
Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.