A guide to your options
Tax credits & savings
A tax credit, a deduction, and a refund are not the same thing. These guides explain how to identify the tax year and records that matter, and where to get help preparing an accurate return.
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11 guidesAOTC vs. Lifetime Learning Credit: Which Fits Your Costs?
Compare education tax credits, identify qualified expenses after scholarships, and check the 2026 SSN change before completing Form 8863.
Can't Pay Your Taxes? IRS Payment Plans and Hardship Help
Compare IRS payment plans with hardship relief, check online eligibility, and prepare a realistic request without confusing delay with tax forgiveness.
Child Tax Credit: How to Check and Claim the Credit
Check Child Tax Credit rules, distinguish the credit from its refundable portion, and prepare the dependent information and Schedule 8812 for your return.
Earned Income Tax Credit: Check Eligibility and Claim It
Check earned income, qualifying children, filing status, and tax-year limits before claiming the EITC, then use official IRS tools or free preparation help.
Free Tax Preparation: Find VITA, TCE, or IRS Free File
Find legitimate free tax preparation, check whether a local VITA or TCE site handles your return, and prepare the documents needed for an appointment.
Saver's Credit Ends in 2026: Saver's Match Starts in 2027
2026 is the last year of the Saver's Credit. In 2027 the Saver's Match starts paying up to $1,000 into your retirement account. Income limits inside.
California Property Tax Postponement 2026: Senior Guide
California seniors 62+ can postpone property taxes in 2026. See the income limit, 5% interest, lien rules, and the Oct 1-Feb 10 deadline to apply.
California Young Child Tax Credit 2026 (YCTC)
The Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) is extra money California pays families who have at least one child under 6 years old. It is refundable, which means you
Foster Youth Tax Credit California 2026 (FYTC)
The Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) is a California cash-back credit for young adults who spent time in foster care. It is money the state pays you when
California Renters Credit 2026
California's Renter's Credit is a flat tax credit for people who rent their home. It is not a refund of rent or a separate benefit you sign up for; it
CalEITC 2026: California Earned Income Tax Credit (Up to $3,756 + YCTC)
CalEITC 2026: earn under $32,900 and claim up to $3,756, plus $1,189 from the Young Child Tax Credit. Refundable, ITIN-eligible, stacks with the federal EITC.