$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
Iowa Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Iowa
SSDI in Iowa - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Iowa - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) replaces part of your paycheck if a disability stops you from working. You earn it through the Social Security taxes taken out of past jobs, so it is a benefit you paid for. In Iowa, the Social Security Administration takes your claim and a state agency, Disability Determination Services, reviews the medical proof.
AVERAGE MONTHLY CHECK
$1,630
The average monthly SSDI payment for a disabled worker in 2026.
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW MUCH YOU CAN EARN
$1,690/mo
Earn more than this in 2026 and Social Security may say you are working at a substantial level ($2,830 if you are blind).
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
MOST CLAIMS DENIED FIRST
62% denied
About 62 percent of first-time disability decisions were denials in 2024, and many are won on appeal, so getting the claim right the first time matters.
SSA FY2024 Workload Data
Who qualifies
- Have a work history that paid Social Security taxes, usually 5 of the last 10 years
- Have a disability expected to last at least 12 months or to be fatal
- Earn less than $1,690 a month from work ($2,830 if blind)
- Live anywhere in Iowa, since SSDI rules are the same nationwide
How to apply
The fastest way to file an SSDI claim and avoid the mistakes that cause denials is through Turnout. We start with a free consultation, and you pay nothing unless you win. Our advocates build your medical evidence and handle the paperwork so your claim is strong the first time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on your past work and the taxes you paid, while SSI is based on low income and few assets. Some people qualify for both at once.
Can I work at all while getting SSDI?
Yes, a little. You can test working through a Trial Work Period, and in 2026 any month you earn over $1,210 counts as a trial month before your benefit is affected.
How long until I get Medicare with SSDI?
24 months after your disability payments start. The wait is built into the program, so plan for other coverage in the meantime.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Iowa - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Iowa - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) pays monthly cash to people who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled and have very little income or savings. Unlike SSDI, you do not need a work history to qualify. In Iowa, getting SSI usually opens the door to Medicaid automatically.
FEDERAL MONTHLY RATE
$994
The most an individual can get from federal SSI in 2026; couples can get up to $1,491.
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
SAVINGS LIMIT
$2,000
An individual must have countable resources under $2,000 ($3,000 for a couple) to qualify.
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
IOWA EXTRA PAYMENT
Care settings only
Iowa's state supplement is not a general top-up; it mainly helps people in residential care or in-home health-related care.
Iowa HHS State Supplementary Assistance
Who qualifies
- Be 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability
- Have countable resources under $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple
- Have very limited monthly income from all sources
- Be an Iowa resident and a U.S. citizen or qualified noncitizen
How to apply
The fastest way to file for SSI and get the income and asset rules right is through Turnout. Your first consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless you win. We help you gather proof of income, resources, and disability so your claim holds up.
Frequently asked questions
Does Iowa add extra money to my federal SSI check?
Only in specific situations. Iowa's State Supplementary Assistance mostly goes to people in residential care facilities or receiving in-home health-related care, not to everyone on SSI.
Will getting SSI get me Medicaid too?
Yes. In Iowa, if you qualify for SSI you generally qualify for Medicaid automatically, and you may be able to get Food Assistance as well.
Can I have any savings and still get SSI?
Yes, up to the limit. One person can keep $2,000 in countable resources; your home and one car usually do not count.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Iowa
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Iowa
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability compensation is a monthly, tax-free payment for veterans living with a service-connected injury or illness. Your payment is based on a disability rating from 0 to 100 percent. Iowa adds its own benefits on top, including a powerful property tax break for veterans rated 100 percent.
100% MONTHLY RATE
$3,938.58
The 2026 monthly payment for a veteran alone rated 100 percent disabled.
VA Veteran Compensation Rates 2026
IOWA PROPERTY TAX
100% wiped out
Iowa's Disabled Veteran Homestead Tax Credit erases the full property tax bill on the homes of 100 percent service-connected veterans.
Iowa Dept. of Revenue
MILITARY RETIREMENT TAX
$0 owed
Iowa does not tax military retirement pay, so those benefits stay in your pocket.
Iowa Dept. of Revenue
Who qualifies
- Served in the military and have a condition connected to that service
- Have a current VA disability rating, or are applying for one
- Iowa homeowners rated 100 percent service-connected for the full property tax credit
- Surviving spouses receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation may also qualify for the tax credit
How to apply
The fastest way to file or appeal a VA disability claim is through Turnout. We offer a free consultation and work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win. Our advocates gather your service and medical records and file a claim built to get the rating you earned.
Frequently asked questions
Is VA disability pay taxed in Iowa?
No. VA disability compensation is tax-free at both the federal and Iowa level, and Iowa also exempts military retirement pay.
How do I get the Iowa property tax exemption for veterans?
File the Disabled Veteran Homestead Tax Credit application with your county assessor by July 1, along with your DD214 and a current VA benefits letter. It covers 100 percent of the tax levy on your homestead.
Can I get VA pay and Social Security disability at the same time?
Yes. VA compensation and SSDI are separate programs with separate rules, and receiving one does not block the other.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Iowa
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Iowa
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older and for some younger people with disabilities. Choosing between Original Medicare, Advantage plans, and drug coverage can be confusing. In Iowa, a free state service called SHIIP gives you unbiased, one-on-one help.
COST OF SHIIP HELP
$0
Iowa's SHIIP counselors give free, unbiased Medicare guidance and do not sell any plans.
Iowa Insurance Division / SHIIP
IOWANS HELPED
52,000+
SHIIP served more than 52,000 Medicare beneficiaries in 2024, saving clients tens of millions of dollars.
Iowa Insurance Division 2025
TIME TO SWITCH PLANS
Oct 15-Dec 7
The yearly window to change Medicare Part D and Advantage plans, with changes effective January 1.
Iowa SHIIP
Who qualifies
- Be 65 or older, or under 65 with a qualifying disability
- Getting or already enrolled in Medicare Parts A, B, C, or D
- A caregiver or family member helping someone with Medicare choices
- Any Iowan who wants free help comparing plans or fighting a denial
How to apply
The fastest way to sort out your Medicare options and appeals is through Turnout, and this advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you. We help you compare plans, understand your coverage, and challenge denials so you are not left guessing.
Frequently asked questions
What is SHIIP in Iowa?
SHIIP is Iowa's free Senior Health Insurance Information Program, run by the Iowa Insurance Division. Trained counselors help you understand Medicare and compare plans without trying to sell you anything.
When can I change my Medicare drug plan?
During open enrollment, October 15 to December 7 each year. Reviewing your Part D plan yearly can save real money, since plans change their costs and covered drugs.
Does Medicare cost me anything to get advocacy help?
No. Both SHIIP counseling and Turnout's Medicare advocacy come at no cost to you.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Iowa
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Iowa
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legal plan that spells out the special education and services a child with a disability gets at school, at no cost to families. In Iowa, services are delivered through your local school district working with an Area Education Agency (AEA), a structure unique to Iowa. If you suspect your child needs help, you can request an evaluation at any time.
TIME TO EVALUATE
60 days
Iowa teams generally complete a special education evaluation within 60 days of consent.
Iowa Dept. of Education
COST TO FAMILIES
$0
Special education and related services are provided free under federal IDEA law.
Iowa Dept. of Education
IOWA'S AEA SYSTEM
Statewide network
Iowa's Area Education Agencies provide the specialists and support behind school district IEP teams.
Iowa Dept. of Education
Who qualifies
- A child from birth to age 21 with a suspected or identified disability
- Children whose disability affects their learning and needs special education
- Families who want an evaluation, which they can request at any time
- Infants and toddlers, served through Iowa's Early ACCESS program
How to apply
The fastest way to secure the right services for your child is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you and join your IEP meetings, so you never walk in alone. We help you request evaluations, read the reports, and hold the school to the plan.
Frequently asked questions
What is an AEA in Iowa?
An Area Education Agency is Iowa's regional support system that provides special education specialists to local school districts. Your child's IEP team includes an AEA representative alongside school staff.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child?
Once you give consent, the Iowa evaluation team generally completes the evaluation within 60 days. You can request an evaluation at any time, even during general education interventions.
Do I have to pay for my child's IEP services?
No. Special education and related services are free under the federal IDEA law, including the evaluation itself.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in Iowa (Iowa Health and Wellness Plan)
Free or low-cost health coverage for eligible Iowans, including adults covered through Iowa's Medicaid expansion.
Medicaid in Iowa (Iowa Health and Wellness Plan)
Free or low-cost health coverage for eligible Iowans, including adults covered through Iowa's Medicaid expansion.
Medicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by Iowa HHS. Iowa expanded Medicaid, so most low-income adults ages 19 to 64 can qualify through the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan, even without children. Kids can get coverage through Medicaid or the Hawki program, and most members get care through IA Health Link managed care.
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Adults 19 to 64 can qualify through the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan up to about 138 percent of the federal poverty level.
Iowa HHS 2026
KIDS COVERED UP TO
302% FPL
Children can qualify for Medicaid or the Hawki program in families earning up to 302 percent of the poverty level.
Iowa HHS 2026
IOWANS COVERED
666,800
About 666,800 Iowans were covered by Medicaid or CHIP as of late 2025.
healthinsurance.org citing CMS, Oct 2025
Who qualifies
- Adults 19 to 64 with income up to about 138 percent of the poverty level
- Children in families up to 302 percent of the poverty level, through Medicaid or Hawki
- Pregnant people, parents, seniors, and people with disabilities who meet income rules
- Iowa residents who are U.S. citizens or qualified noncitizens
How to apply
Apply any time of year through the Iowa HHS Services Portal at hhsservices.iowa.gov, by phone at 1-855-889-7985, or at your local HHS office. Have your income, Social Security numbers, and household details ready. Most health coverage decisions come within 45 days, and there is no open enrollment window for Medicaid.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan?
It is Iowa's name for Medicaid expansion, covering adults ages 19 to 64 up to about 138 percent of the poverty level. Coverage is free or very low cost through IA Health Link managed care.
Do I have to work to keep Iowa Medicaid?
Starting December 1, 2026, many Iowa Health and Wellness Plan members ages 19 to 64 must meet an 80-hour monthly work or activity requirement, unless they qualify for an exemption like caring for a young child or having a disability.
Can my kids get covered if I earn too much for Medicaid?
Yes. Iowa's Hawki program covers children in families that earn too much for Medicaid, with income limits up to 302 percent of the poverty level.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Iowa (Food Assistance)
Monthly grocery money on an EBT card for eligible low-income Iowa households.
SNAP in Iowa (Food Assistance)
Monthly grocery money on an EBT card for eligible low-income Iowa households.
SNAP is called Food Assistance in Iowa, and it puts monthly money for groceries on an EBT card you swipe like a debit card. Iowa HHS runs the program, and it uses a higher-than-usual income cutoff of 160 percent of the poverty level. Keep in mind Iowa passed a 2023 law adding an asset test, so savings can matter.
MAX FOR FAMILY OF 4
$994/mo
The most a household of four can get in 2026; your actual amount depends on income and deductions.
USDA FNS FY2026
INCOME CUTOFF
160% FPL
Iowa lets most households qualify with gross income up to 160 percent of the poverty level.
Iowa Legislature / USDA FY2026
DECISION TIME
7 or 30 days
Emergency cases get benefits within 7 days; standard applications are decided within 30 days.
7 CFR 273
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income up to about 160 percent of the poverty level
- Iowans who buy and prepare food together as one household
- Households under Iowa's asset limit of $15,000 in countable resources
- U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens living in Iowa
How to apply
Apply online through the Iowa HHS Services Portal at hhsservices.iowa.gov, at your local HHS office, or by mailing a paper application. Have proof of income, household size, and expenses ready, and expect a required interview. Standard decisions come within 30 days, or within 7 days if you qualify for emergency SNAP.
Frequently asked questions
Is SNAP called something different in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa calls SNAP "Food Assistance," and benefits load onto an EBT card. It is the same federal program known elsewhere as food stamps.
Does Iowa count my savings for Food Assistance?
Yes. Under a 2023 Iowa law, households face a $15,000 asset limit. Your home, first vehicle, and retirement accounts do not count; a second vehicle counts only for the value above $10,000.
Can I get Food Assistance if I have a job?
Yes. Many working households qualify because Iowa uses a 160 percent poverty-level income limit and subtracts deductions for things like rent, utilities, and child care.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC in Iowa
Healthy food, nutrition help, and breastfeeding support for pregnant people, new parents, and young children.
WIC in Iowa
Healthy food, nutrition help, and breastfeeding support for pregnant people, new parents, and young children.
WIC gives pregnant people, new parents, babies, and children under 5 healthy food, nutrition advice, and breastfeeding support. In Iowa, WIC is run by Iowa HHS and benefits load onto an eWIC card you use at approved stores. If you are already on Medicaid, SNAP, or FIP, you are automatically income-eligible.
INCOME LIMIT
185% FPL
Households at or below 185 percent of the poverty level can qualify for Iowa WIC.
Iowa HHS / USDA
AUTO-QUALIFY WITH
Medicaid, SNAP, FIP
Being on Medicaid, Food Assistance, or FIP makes you automatically income-eligible for WIC.
Iowa HHS WIC
IOWA REACH
All 99 counties
Iowa WIC serves families in every one of the state's 99 counties.
Iowa HHS WIC
Who qualifies
- Pregnant, recently pregnant, or breastfeeding people
- Infants and children up to age 5 at nutritional risk
- Households at or below 185 percent of the poverty level
- Anyone already on Medicaid, Food Assistance, or FIP, who is auto-eligible
How to apply
Contact your local Iowa WIC clinic to make an appointment, or start on the Iowa HHS benefits portal. Bring proof of Iowa address, income (unless you are on Medicaid, SNAP, or FIP), and identity for each family member. Staff complete a short nutrition check at your visit and issue your eWIC card the same day.
Frequently asked questions
Do I make too much for WIC in Iowa?
Maybe not. Iowa WIC allows income up to 185 percent of the poverty level, and if you are already on Medicaid, SNAP, or FIP you qualify automatically.
Can dads and guardians bring kids to WIC?
Yes. Iowa WIC welcomes fathers, stepfathers, and other caregivers to bring children and take part in appointments.
Where can I use my Iowa eWIC card?
At WIC-approved grocery stores and pharmacies in Iowa. Your Iowa card will not work in other states, so you would reapply if you move.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Iowa (Energy Assistance)
Help paying winter heating bills, plus protection from having your utilities shut off.
LIHEAP in Iowa (Energy Assistance)
Help paying winter heating bills, plus protection from having your utilities shut off.
LIHEAP helps low-income Iowans pay part of their winter heating costs, with a payment sent straight to your utility or fuel vendor. Iowa HHS runs it through local community action agencies. A big Iowa perk: once you are approved, your utilities cannot shut off your heat during the winter moratorium.
INCOME LIMIT
200% FPL
Households at or below 200 percent of the poverty level can qualify for Iowa energy assistance.
Iowa HHS 2025-2026
SHUTOFF PROTECTION
Nov 1-Apr 1
Approved households cannot have gas or electric heat disconnected during Iowa's winter moratorium.
Iowa Utilities Commission
IOWA FUNDING
$52.9 million
Iowa was awarded about $52.9 million in LIHEAP funds for federal fiscal year 2026.
ACF / Iowa Capital Dispatch 2025
Who qualifies
- Homeowners and renters with income at or below 200 percent of the poverty level
- Households responsible for their home heating costs
- Iowa residents living in their primary home at the time they apply
- Elderly (60+) or disabled applicants, who can apply as early as October 1
How to apply
Apply through your local community action agency or online during the application season, which runs October 1 for elderly and disabled households and November 1 for everyone else, through April 30. Bring proof of income, recent heat and electric bills, and Social Security numbers for your household. If you are unsure where to go, dial 211 or check the Iowa HHS website.
Frequently asked questions
Can my utility shut off my heat if I get LIHEAP?
No, not during the winter. If you are certified for LIHEAP, your gas and electric heat cannot be disconnected from November 1 through April 1, though you should keep paying what you can.
When can I apply for energy assistance in Iowa?
Applications open October 1 for households with a member 60 or older or with a disability, and November 1 for all other households. The deadline is April 30.
Who actually runs LIHEAP in Iowa?
Iowa HHS oversees the program, but you apply through your local community action agency. Emergency crisis help may be available year-round.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Marketplace in Iowa
Private health plans with subsidies through HealthCare.gov for Iowans who don't have other coverage.
ACA Marketplace in Iowa
Private health plans with subsidies through HealthCare.gov for Iowans who don't have other coverage.
The ACA Marketplace lets Iowans buy private health plans, often with subsidies that lower the monthly cost. Iowa uses the federal marketplace, so you shop and enroll at HealthCare.gov. Most Iowa enrollees get financial help, though subsidies shrank for 2026 after enhanced credits expired.
IOWANS ENROLLED
123,304
Iowans selected a Marketplace plan for 2026 coverage, down about 10 percent from 2025.
CMS 2026 OEP Snapshot
GET FINANCIAL HELP
76%
About 76 percent of Iowa Marketplace enrollees qualified for premium subsidies in 2026.
healthinsurance.org 2026 (approx.)
AVERAGE SUBSIDY
$499/mo
Subsidized Iowa enrollees got roughly $499 a month in premium tax credits in 2026.
healthinsurance.org 2026 (approx.)
Who qualifies
- Iowans without affordable coverage through a job, Medicare, or Medicaid
- Households whose income qualifies them for premium tax credits
- People with a qualifying life event, for a special enrollment period
- U.S. citizens and lawfully present residents living in Iowa
How to apply
Shop and enroll at HealthCare.gov during open enrollment, which runs November 1 to January 15 for the year ahead. Have your household income estimate, Social Security numbers, and current coverage details ready. If you miss the window, a qualifying life event like losing job coverage or having a baby can open a special enrollment period.
Frequently asked questions
Does Iowa run its own health insurance exchange?
No. Iowa uses the federal marketplace, so you enroll at HealthCare.gov rather than a state-run site.
Can I still get help paying for a plan in 2026?
Yes, most Iowa enrollees do, but subsidies are smaller than in recent years and are no longer available above 400 percent of the poverty level after enhanced credits expired.
What if my income is low enough for Medicaid?
HealthCare.gov will route you to Iowa Medicaid if you qualify. You cannot get Marketplace subsidies if you are eligible for Medicaid.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Iowa (Family Investment Program)
Monthly cash help and job support for low-income families with children.
TANF in Iowa (Family Investment Program)
Monthly cash help and job support for low-income families with children.
Iowa's version of TANF is the Family Investment Program, or FIP. It gives monthly cash to low-income families with children while helping parents move toward steady work through the PROMISE JOBS program. The cash is meant as temporary support, with a 60-month lifetime limit.
MAX CASH, FAMILY OF 3
$426/mo
The most a family of three with no other income can receive in monthly FIP cash.
Iowa Legislature FIP payment schedule
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
Federal rules cap FIP at 60 months over a lifetime, with hardship extensions possible.
Iowa HHS
WORK PROGRAM
PROMISE JOBS
Most FIP families take part in PROMISE JOBS for job training and employment support.
Iowa HHS
Who qualifies
- Families responsible for a child under 18 (or 19 and still in high school)
- Households that meet FIP income and resource limits
- Parents willing to take part in PROMISE JOBS unless exempt
- Iowa residents who are U.S. citizens or qualified noncitizens
How to apply
Apply online through the Iowa HHS Services Portal at hhsservices.iowa.gov, or pick up a paper application at your local HHS office. Have proof of income, your children's information, and household details ready. You will also work with staff to build a Family Investment Agreement that maps your path toward employment.
Frequently asked questions
Is TANF called something else in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa's cash assistance for families is the Family Investment Program, or FIP. It is the state's version of the federal TANF program.
Is the $426 an income limit or the payment?
It is the payment. A family of three with no other income can get up to $426 a month in FIP cash; families with some income can still qualify but get less.
Does getting the EITC reduce my FIP?
No. The Earned Income Tax Credit is not counted against your FIP grant, so you can claim both.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Iowa
A refundable tax credit for working people, with an extra 15% state match in Iowa.
EITC in Iowa
A refundable tax credit for working people, with an extra 15% state match in Iowa.
The Earned Income Tax Credit puts money back in the pockets of working people with low to moderate income, and you can get it even if you owe no tax. Iowa sweetens the deal with its own refundable EITC worth 15 percent of your federal credit. You claim both when you file your taxes.
IOWA MATCH
15%
Iowa adds a refundable state EITC equal to 15 percent of your federal credit.
Iowa Dept. of Revenue
FEDERAL MAX
$8,231
The largest 2026 federal credit, for workers with three or more children.
IRS 2026 Inflation Adjustments
NO KIDS NEEDED
$664
Even workers with no children can get a federal credit of up to $664 in 2026, plus Iowa's 15 percent.
IRS 2026 Inflation Adjustments
Who qualifies
- Working people with low to moderate earned income
- Workers with or without children who qualify for the federal EITC
- Iowa filers, who automatically qualify for the 15 percent state credit
- Filers with a valid Social Security number for work
How to apply
Claim the EITC when you file your federal and Iowa tax returns; the state credit is calculated right on your IA 1040. If you qualified in past years but did not claim it, you can generally amend returns for up to three years. Free tax help through VITA sites across Iowa can make sure you get every dollar.
Frequently asked questions
Does Iowa have its own EITC?
Yes. Iowa offers a refundable state EITC equal to 15 percent of your federal credit, and everyone who qualifies federally qualifies in Iowa.
What does refundable mean for me?
It means if the credit is larger than the tax you owe, Iowa sends you the difference as a refund. You get the full amount even if you owe no state tax.
Do I need kids to claim the EITC?
No. Workers without children can still claim a smaller federal credit, up to $664 in 2026, plus Iowa's 15 percent match.
Government resources
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Child Tax Credit in Iowa
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Iowa
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit lowers your federal tax bill for each qualifying child under 17, and part of it can come back to you as a refund even if you owe little tax. It is a federal credit only, so you claim it on your federal return. Iowa does not have its own separate Child Tax Credit.
MAX PER CHILD
$2,200
The 2026 federal Child Tax Credit is up to $2,200 for each qualifying child.
IRS Child Tax Credit, 2026
REFUNDABLE PART
$1,700
Up to $1,700 per child can come back as a refund if the credit is more than the tax you owe.
IRS Child Tax Credit, 2026
IOWA STATE CTC
None
Iowa does not offer its own Child Tax Credit on top of the federal one.
Tax Credits for Workers and Families, 2025
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 at year end
- Taxpayers whose income is within the federal phase-out limits
- Filers claiming the child as a dependent with a valid Social Security number
- Working families who can claim the refundable portion even with low tax owed
How to apply
Claim the Child Tax Credit on your federal tax return by listing each qualifying child as a dependent. There is no separate Iowa form, since Iowa has no state Child Tax Credit. Free VITA tax preparation sites across Iowa can help you claim it correctly along with the EITC.
Frequently asked questions
Does Iowa have its own Child Tax Credit?
No. The Child Tax Credit is federal only. Iowa does offer a separate Child and Dependent Care Credit and a refundable state EITC, which are different benefits.
Can I get money back if I owe no tax?
Yes, up to a point. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable in 2026, so you may get part of the credit as a refund even with little or no tax owed.
Can I claim the Child Tax Credit and the EITC together?
Yes. Many working families with kids qualify for both the federal Child Tax Credit and the EITC, plus Iowa's 15 percent state EITC.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Iowa
Help paying for child care so parents can work, go to school, or train.
Child Care Assistance in Iowa
Help paying for child care so parents can work, go to school, or train.
Iowa's Child Care Assistance program, or CCA, helps low- and moderate-income families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or train. Iowa HHS runs it, and the state raised the entry income limit to 160 percent of the poverty level. A graduated off-ramp lets families keep help as their income rises, so a small raise does not cut you off overnight.
ENTRY INCOME LIMIT
160% FPL
Most families can qualify for CCA at initial application with income up to 160 percent of the poverty level.
Iowa HHS / Iowa Capital Dispatch 2026
STAY-ELIGIBLE UP TO
225% FPL
Iowa's graduated CCA Exit program lets families keep help until income passes 225 percent of the poverty level.
Iowa CCR&R / HF 302
COVERS KIDS UNDER
Age 13
CCA covers children under 13, or under 19 if the child has special needs.
Iowa HHS
Who qualifies
- Families with a child under 13, or under 19 with special needs
- Parents working at least 32 hours a week, or in school or training
- Households with income up to 160 percent of the poverty level at entry
- Families getting FIP or in PROMISE JOBS, served based on need
How to apply
Apply online through the Iowa HHS CCA Family Portal, or pick up a paper application at any county HHS office. Have proof of income, your work or school schedule, and your child care provider's information ready. You will get a decision by mail within 30 days, and your provider must be approved by HHS to be paid.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I earn and still get Child Care Assistance?
Most Iowa families can qualify at entry with income up to 160 percent of the poverty level. Special-needs cases and the graduated exit program allow higher limits.
Will a raise at work cut off my child care help right away?
Not immediately. Iowa's graduated CCA Exit program lets families keep help as income climbs above the entry limit, phasing out gradually up to 225 percent of the poverty level.
Can I pick my own child care provider?
Yes, as long as your provider is approved by Iowa HHS. You can choose from centers, in-home providers, and other approved arrangements.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
