$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
Connecticut Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Connecticut
SSDI in Connecticut - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Connecticut - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is a benefit you already paid for through Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition. It is federal, so the rules are the same in Connecticut as everywhere else.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in Connecticut?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. In Connecticut you may also qualify for HUSKY C (Medicaid for people with disabilities) while you wait, since the state expanded Medicaid.
How long does SSDI take in Connecticut?
Connecticut processes initial claims through its Disability Determination Services. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity, which is $1,690 in 2026. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Connecticut - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Connecticut - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. In Connecticut, getting SSI opens the door to HUSKY Medicaid, and the state adds its own State Supplement cash on top for many recipients.
FEDERAL MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026, before any Connecticut State Supplement is added
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit for one person; your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
CONNECTICUT ADDS ON
State Supplement
Connecticut pays an extra cash State Supplement to many aged, blind, or disabled residents on top of the federal amount
CT DSS, 2026
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
- Connecticut residents who may also qualify for the State Supplement and HUSKY Medicaid
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get Medicaid with SSI in Connecticut?
Yes. SSI approval enrolls you in HUSKY C, Connecticut Medicaid for aged, blind, and disabled residents. No separate application is needed.
Does Connecticut add to my SSI payment?
Often yes. Connecticut runs a State Supplement program through the Department of Social Services that pays extra cash to many aged, blind, or disabled residents. It is a general supplement, not limited to one type of living arrangement.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Connecticut
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Connecticut
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. The VA assigns a rating from 0 to 100 percent that sets your payment, and many veterans are rated too low or denied at first.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS, and Connecticut also exempts it from state income tax
IRS / CT DRS, 2026
CONNECTICUT PROPERTY TAX
Fully exempt at 100%
Veterans rated 100% permanent and total get a full property-tax exemption on their primary home
CT PA 25-168 / CGS 12-81(83), 2026
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does Connecticut offer extra property-tax help for disabled veterans?
Yes. Connecticut gives a full property-tax exemption on the primary home to veterans rated 100 percent permanent and total, effective for the 2024 assessment year. A 100 percent schedular rating is required, so unemployability (TDIU) does not qualify. This is separate from your federal VA compensation.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Connecticut
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Connecticut
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Up to 6 hours a month
Free monthly sessions with your own dedicated advocate
Turnout
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- And more, including those reviewing or switching plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in Connecticut?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and HUSKY (Medicaid) in Connecticut?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. HUSKY is Connecticut Medicaid, based on income. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
Is there free Medicare counseling in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut runs CHOICES, the state Medicare counseling program, through the Department of Aging and Disability Services. Turnout can also work with you directly to compare plans and cut costs.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Connecticut
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Connecticut
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed, 2026
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education, 2026
CONNECTICUT TIMELINE
45 school days
From written referral to an IEP in place, not counting the time to get your consent
CT SDE / RCSA 10-76d-13, 2026
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in Connecticut public schools
- Have a qualifying disability under IDEA, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, speech delays, emotional disturbance, and more
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in Connecticut?
Connecticut uses a 45-school-day timeline from your written referral to having the IEP in place, not counting the time it takes to get your written consent for testing. Out-of-district or private placements have a 60-school-day timeline.
What does an education advocate do?
An education advocate helps you understand your child's rights, prepares with you before meetings, joins your IEP meetings, and pushes back when the school offers less than the law requires.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in Connecticut (HUSKY Health)
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Connecticut residents.
Medicaid in Connecticut (HUSKY Health)
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Connecticut residents.
HUSKY Health is Connecticut Medicaid. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. Connecticut expanded Medicaid, so low-income adults with no children can qualify through HUSKY D, along with children, parents, pregnant residents, seniors, and people with disabilities. About one in three Connecticut residents is covered.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
1M+
Connecticut residents enrolled in HUSKY Health/Medicaid, roughly one in three people (approximate)
CT Healthcare Explained / KFF, 2024-2025 (approx.)
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most HUSKY enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
CT DSS, 2026
EXPANSION ADULT LIMIT
138% FPL
Adults 19 to 64 with no dependent children can qualify for HUSKY D up to about $1,836 a month for one person
CT DSS HUSKY Income Chart, March 2026
Who qualifies
- Children through age 18 in households up to about 201% of the federal poverty level
- Pregnant residents up to about 258% of the federal poverty level, with 12 months of postpartum coverage
- Parents and caretaker relatives up to about 138% of the federal poverty level
- Adults 19 to 64 with no children up to 138% of the poverty level through HUSKY D expansion
- SSI recipients and many aged, blind, or disabled residents through HUSKY C
How to apply
Apply through Access Health CT at accesshealthct.com or through the Department of Social Services at connect.ct.gov, or call 1-877-284-8759. Have proof of income, identity, and Connecticut residency ready. Most decisions come within 45 days, longer if a disability determination is needed. Aged, blind, or disabled applicants for HUSKY C apply through DSS rather than the marketplace.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut calls its Medicaid program HUSKY Health. HUSKY A covers children, parents, and pregnant residents, HUSKY B is the children's CHIP plan, HUSKY C covers aged, blind, and disabled residents, and HUSKY D covers expansion adults.
What's the difference between HUSKY and Medicare?
HUSKY (Medicaid) is based on income. Medicare is based mainly on age or disability. Some people qualify for both.
Can adults without children get HUSKY in Connecticut?
Yes. Because Connecticut expanded Medicaid, adults 19 to 64 with no dependent children can qualify for HUSKY D with income up to about 138 percent of the federal poverty level.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Connecticut
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in Connecticut
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP helps qualifying Connecticut households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto an EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores and many farmers markets. The program is run by the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS). Connecticut uses broad-based categorical eligibility, which raises the income limit and drops the asset test for most families.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~369,000
Connecticut residents received SNAP benefits on average in FY2025, about 10% of the state
USDA / USAFacts, FY2025
HIGHER INCOME LIMIT
200% FPL
Connecticut raises the gross income limit to 200% of the poverty level, about $4,442 a month for a family of three
CT DSS SNAP Tables, 2025-2026
HOW FAST APPROVAL HAPPENS
7 days
Expedited benefits for households with very low income or urgent need; standard processing up to 30 days
CT DSS / federal SNAP rule, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, about $4,442 a month for a family of three
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Connecticut
- Most adults age 16 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
- Most households face no asset test because Connecticut uses broad-based categorical eligibility
How to apply
Apply online through ConneCT at connect.ct.gov, or in person at your local DSS office. You can also call the DSS Benefits Center at 1-855-626-6632. An interview is required but can be done by phone. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need.
Frequently asked questions
I work full-time. Can I still qualify for SNAP in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut sets the gross income limit at 200 percent of the poverty level, so many working households qualify once deductions for rent, utilities, childcare, and earned income are applied.
Is there an asset or savings limit for SNAP in Connecticut?
For most households, no. Connecticut uses broad-based categorical eligibility, which removes the asset test for most families. Some households with an elderly or disabled member over the gross income limit do face an asset limit.
Can I use my EBT card online or at farmers markets?
Yes. The Connecticut EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores, at retailers like Walmart and Amazon for online orders, and at many farmers markets across the state.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Connecticut
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Connecticut
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on HUSKY, SNAP, or Temporary Family Assistance usually qualifies you automatically.
BABIES WIC REACHES
4 in 10
WIC serves about 4 in 10 of all infants born in the US
USDA, 2024
ON HUSKY OR SNAP?
Auto-eligible
Being on HUSKY Medicaid, SNAP, or Temporary Family Assistance automatically meets WIC's income test
CT DPH / USDA, 2026
WHO IT'S FOR
Through age 5
Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5
USDA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving SNAP, HUSKY, or Temporary Family Assistance are automatically income-eligible
- Connecticut residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Call 1-800-741-2142 or your local WIC office to schedule an appointment, or fill out the interest form on the Connecticut WIC website. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of Connecticut residency, and proof of household income or proof of HUSKY, SNAP, or Temporary Family Assistance enrollment. If approved, you receive your Connecticut eWIC card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by Connecticut's WIC food list.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limits are higher than people expect, and being on HUSKY or SNAP usually qualifies you automatically.
Does WIC cover baby formula?
Yes. WIC provides infant formula for babies who need it, and it also supports breastfeeding with counseling and ongoing help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Connecticut (Energy Assistance)
Assistance that helps cover your home heating bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in Connecticut (Energy Assistance)
Assistance that helps cover your home heating bills and prevents shutoffs.
Connecticut's Energy Assistance Program, called CEAP, helps qualifying households pay their winter heating bills, with payments made directly to the utility or fuel supplier. The program is federally funded and run by the Department of Social Services through local Community Action Agencies. It focuses on heating, with extra crisis help for households at risk of running out of fuel or facing a shutoff.
INCOME LIMIT
60% of state median
Households at or below 60% of the state median income can qualify, about $77,157 a year for a family of three
CT DSS CEAP, 2025-2026
BASIC BENEFIT
$295 to $645
The basic heating benefit for the 2025-2026 season, set by income tier and household vulnerability
CT CEAP Benefit Matrix, FFY2026
PAID DIRECTLY
To your utility
The benefit is credited to your energy account or fuel supplier, not paid to you as cash
CT DSS CEAP, 2026
Who qualifies
- Connecticut households with income at or below 60% of the state median income
- Renters and homeowners paying heating bills, or paying heating costs included in rent
- Priority and higher benefits for vulnerable households with older adults, young children, or people with disabilities
- Households on SNAP, Temporary Family Assistance, SSI, or the State Supplement are automatically income-eligible
How to apply
Apply through your local Community Action Agency, not DSS directly. Find your agency at portal.ct.gov/heatinghelp or by calling 2-1-1. Bring a current utility or fuel bill, photo ID, proof of income, and any shutoff notice. Applications for the winter season usually open in the fall and close in the spring, and funds are limited, so apply early.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is too high for energy assistance?
Connecticut uses a 60 percent state median income limit, which is higher than many people expect. If you receive SNAP, Temporary Family Assistance, SSI, or the State Supplement, you automatically meet the income test.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
No. CEAP payments go directly to your utility company or fuel supplier. The benefit is credited to your account, reducing what you owe or helping prevent a shutoff. You will not receive cash.
Can renters apply, or only homeowners?
Both renters and homeowners can apply. If heat is included in your rent, your local Community Action Agency can confirm how the benefit applies.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Connecticut (Access Health CT)
Subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance through Connecticut's own marketplace.
ACA Subsidies in Connecticut (Access Health CT)
Subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance through Connecticut's own marketplace.
ACA subsidies are tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan. Connecticut runs its own marketplace, Access Health CT, instead of using the federal HealthCare.gov. Because Connecticut expanded Medicaid, most low-income residents get HUSKY, and the marketplace covers those above the HUSKY limits, often with large subsidies.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
157,000+
Connecticut residents enrolled in a private marketplace plan for 2026, a record high
Access Health CT, 2026
ZERO-PREMIUM OPTION
Covered CT
Over 51,000 residents get $0-premium coverage through the state Covered Connecticut program in 2026
Access Health CT / CT, 2026
WHEN TO ENROLL
Nov 1 -- Jan 15
Open enrollment for the coming year. Special enrollment is available year-round for qualifying life events
Access Health CT, 2026
Who qualifies
- Connecticut residents without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning above the HUSKY Medicaid limits
- Those not eligible for HUSKY, Medicare, or other qualifying coverage
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Connecticut
How to apply
Apply online at Access Health CT, accesshealthct.com, or call 1-855-805-4325. Enter your household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and plans, then compare by premium, deductible, and network. Enroll during open enrollment (Nov 1 to Jan 15) or after a qualifying life event like job loss, marriage, or the birth of a child. Free local enrollment help is available.
Frequently asked questions
Does Connecticut use HealthCare.gov?
No. Connecticut runs its own marketplace, Access Health CT. You enroll at accesshealthct.com, not HealthCare.gov, and Connecticut adds its own programs like Covered Connecticut on top of the federal subsidies.
What if my income is too low for marketplace subsidies?
Apply anyway. Access Health CT screens for HUSKY Medicaid at the same time. Because Connecticut expanded Medicaid, most low-income adults qualify for HUSKY rather than falling into a coverage gap.
What is Covered Connecticut?
Covered Connecticut is a state program that pays the premium and cost-sharing for eligible lower-income residents, so they get a Silver plan with $0 monthly premium through Access Health CT.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Connecticut (Temporary Family Assistance)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in Connecticut (Temporary Family Assistance)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
Temporary Family Assistance, or TFA, is Connecticut's version of TANF. It provides monthly cash to families with children who have very limited income. The cash is loaded onto an EBT card and can be used for basic needs like rent, utilities, food, and transportation. The program is run by the Department of Social Services and comes with a work requirement through Jobs First Employment Services and a 36-month state time limit with possible extensions.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$970
The payment standard, or maximum monthly cash grant, for a family of three with no countable income and no housing subsidy
CT DSS Program Standards Chart, 2026
STATE TIME LIMIT
36 months
Connecticut sets a 36-month state time limit for families with an employable adult, shorter than the federal 60-month cap, with two 6-month extensions possible
CT DSS TFA, 2026
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
55% FPL
To qualify, a new applicant family must have income below 55% of the federal poverty level, about $1,222 a month for a family of three
CT DSS Program Standards Chart, 2025
Who qualifies
- Connecticut residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 18 and still in high school full time)
- New applicant families with income below 55% of the federal poverty level for their family size
- Adults must take part in Jobs First Employment Services unless exempt
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through ConneCT at connect.ct.gov, or in person at your local DSS office. You can also call the DSS Benefits Center at 1-855-626-6632. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. Applying also screens you for SNAP and HUSKY. If approved, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I receive Temporary Family Assistance in Connecticut?
Connecticut sets a 36-month state time limit for families with an employable adult, which is shorter than the federal 60-month lifetime cap. Families can request two 6-month extensions, and families without an employable adult are treated differently.
What's the difference between Temporary Family Assistance and TANF?
They are the same thing. Temporary Family Assistance is simply Connecticut's name for the federal TANF program, run by the Department of Social Services.
Can I receive Temporary Family Assistance and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. TFA recipients are generally categorically eligible for SNAP and HUSKY Medicaid. Applying at ConneCT screens you for all three at the same time.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Connecticut (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Connecticut (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. It is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. Connecticut adds its own state EITC on top of the federal credit, worth 40 percent of the federal amount, plus a new $250 bonus for filers with a qualifying child.
FEDERAL WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 federal maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
CONNECTICUT ADDS
40% + $250
Connecticut pays a state EITC worth 40% of your federal credit, plus a $250 bonus if you have at least one qualifying child
CT DRS / Schedule CT-EITC, 2025
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
Both the federal and Connecticut EITC are refundable, so you receive the full amount even if you owe nothing
IRS / CT DRS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- Connecticut residents who claim the federal EITC also qualify for the state credit
How to apply
You claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file. Connecticut residents then claim the state credit on Schedule CT-EITC with the state return, which is calculated from the federal credit. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller federal credit, and Connecticut adds 40 percent on top. The extra $250 state bonus only applies if you have at least one qualifying child.
Does Connecticut have its own state EITC?
Yes. Connecticut offers a state earned income tax credit worth 40 percent of your federal EITC, plus a new $250 bonus for filers with at least one qualifying child. You claim it on Schedule CT-EITC.
Will getting EITC affect my other benefits?
Generally no. EITC refunds aren't counted as income for programs like SNAP or HUSKY, and there are protections so a refund doesn't immediately count against asset limits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Connecticut
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Connecticut
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, available to Connecticut families when they file their federal tax return. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, meaning lower-income families can receive it as a direct payment even when they owe no federal tax. Connecticut does not have a permanent state child tax credit, so the federal credit is what applies.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS, 2026
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax
IRS, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES
Most families
Most families with children qualify; the credit only phases out at higher incomes
IRS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the Child Tax Credit when you file a federal tax return. You can claim it even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free filing help will walk you through it and fill in the right forms (Schedule 8812) for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a Social Security number?
Yes. You, your spouse if filing jointly, and each qualifying child must have a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
The Additional Child Tax Credit is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable. You need at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify and claim it on Schedule 8812.
Does Connecticut have a state Child Tax Credit?
No. Connecticut does not have a permanent state Child Tax Credit. It offered a one-time child tax rebate in 2022, but that has ended. The federal credit is fully available to Connecticut residents.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Connecticut (Care 4 Kids)
Subsidized child care for working Connecticut families.
Child Care Assistance in Connecticut (Care 4 Kids)
Subsidized child care for working Connecticut families.
Care 4 Kids is Connecticut's child care subsidy program. It helps working families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or complete job training. It is funded by the federal Child Care and Development Fund and run by the Office of Early Childhood through United Way of Connecticut. The program pays providers directly, with families paying a sliding-scale share based on income.
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a fee based on income and family size; lower-income families pay little to nothing
CT OEC / Care 4 Kids, 2026
INCOME LIMIT
60% of state median
Families enter the program at or below 60% of the state median income and can keep coverage until income reaches 85% of the state median
CT OEC / Care 4 Kids, 2026
ENROLLMENT LIST ACTIVE
Roughly 8-month wait
New non-priority applications go on an enrollment list, filled in order received; priority groups still enroll right away
Care 4 Kids enrollment list, 2026
Who qualifies
- Connecticut residents with a child under 13, or under 19 with special needs
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in job training
- Households at or below the state income limit (enter at 60% of the state median income; stay until 85% of the state median)
- Child is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigration status
How to apply
Apply online at ctcare4kids.com or call 1-888-214-5437. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work or training schedule. New non-priority applications are placed on an enrollment list filled in the order received, so apply as soon as you know you need care. Priority groups such as families on Temporary Family Assistance enroll right away.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose my own child care provider?
Yes. You can choose from any provider approved by Care 4 Kids, including licensed centers, licensed family child care homes, and certain relative caregivers.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
A sliding-scale family fee applies based on your income and family size. Lower-income families may pay little to nothing, while families closer to the income limit pay more.
What happens if I'm on the enrollment list?
Your application stays active and slots are filled in the order applications were received as funding allows. Priority categories, such as families on Temporary Family Assistance, foster families, and families experiencing homelessness, can still enroll directly.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
