New WA Tax Credit: Applications Open For Payments Up To $1200

SEATTLE — Applications opened Wednesday for Washingtonians to file for the new Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC), which can provide up to $1,200 to eligible residents and families to help offset the growing cost of living. The legislature approved and funded the new tax refund in 2021, and the program opened for applicants on Feb. 1.

Eligibility is based on income level and family size, and the state estimates up to 400,000 individuals and households will qualify. Seattle city leaders welcomed the new round of financial relief in statements shared Tuesday.

"Direct cash payments to Seattle families could not come at a better time," said Seattle City Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda. "With inflation, high childcare and rent costs, and workplace insecurity, this cash will serve as a boost to help working families across our city."

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
• Have lived in Washington a minimum of 183 days in 2022 (over half the year).
• Be at least 25 and under 65 years of age OR have a qualifying child in 2022.
• Filed a 2022 federal tax return.
• Be eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) on their 2022 tax return (or would meet the requirements for EITC but are filing with an ITIN).
• Meet the income requirements.

Those who are eligible for the credit will receive refunds ranging from $300 to $1,200.

Residents can apply for the Working Families Tax Credit on the state Department of Revenue website through Dec. 31, 2023, and free assistance is available through the United Way's free tax prep program.