Who can apply
You must qualify for federal EITC and follow Rhode Island filing rules. Use the forms and instructions for the tax year being filed.
What help is available
Taxation’s 2025 filing guidance lists the state credit as 16% of federal EITC. Refundable credit can exceed state tax owed.
Documents to prepare
- Federal return and EITC calculation.
- Income and qualifying family records.
- Matching Rhode Island return and credit instructions.
How to get started
Complete federal taxes
Determine federal EITC under the correct year’s rules.
Prepare the state return
Use the forms linked on RI personal income tax.
File required evidence
Follow resident or nonresident instructions and retain both returns.
After applying
The stated percentage is checked against 2025 guidance. Recheck the applicable instructions before another year’s filing.
Website screenshots
These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.
Common questions
Can this credit create a refund?
Yes. Rhode Island describes it as refundable.
Is it claimed through HealthyRhode?
No. Use the income-tax return.
Is federal EITC required?
The state credit is based on federal EITC entitlement.
Can I use an old tax form?
Use the form matching the year you file.
Sources and review
Content checked October 1, 2026 using 2025 Taxation guidance; RI tax forms. Current eligibility and the final decision remain with the program.
Historical screenshots: source reference.