$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
Minnesota Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Minnesota
SSDI in Minnesota - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Minnesota - 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. In Minnesota you may also qualify for Medical Assistance during that wait, since the state expanded Medicaid to adults up to 138% of the poverty level.
How long does SSDI take in Minnesota?
Minnesota 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. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Minnesota - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Minnesota - 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 Minnesota, SSI recipients also get Medical Assistance and may receive extra cash through Minnesota Supplemental Aid.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026, before any Minnesota Supplemental Aid is added
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit, matched by Minnesota Supplemental Aid; your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
MINNESOTA ADDS ON
Extra cash monthly
Minnesota Supplemental Aid adds a state payment on top of federal SSI for most recipients
Minnesota DHS, 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
- Minnesota residents receiving SSI are eligible for Minnesota Supplemental Aid
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 Medical Assistance with SSI in Minnesota?
Yes. SSI approval automatically enrolls you in Minnesota Medical Assistance, the state Medicaid program. No separate application is needed.
Does Minnesota add to my SSI payment?
Yes. Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) pays a state amount on top of federal SSI for most recipients, administered by the Minnesota Department of Human Services. A separate MSA Housing Assistance payment can help if you spend more than 40 percent of your income on housing.
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 Minnesota
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Minnesota
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
MINNESOTA TAX BREAK
Up to $300,000
Home market value excluded from property tax for veterans rated 100% permanent and total; up to $150,000 at 70% to 99%
Minnesota Dept. of Revenue, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS
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 Minnesota offer any extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. Minnesota excludes a large share of your home value from property tax through the Disabled Veterans Homestead Market Value Exclusion, up to $150,000 for a 70 to 99 percent rating and up to $300,000 for a 100 percent permanent and total rating. Apply through your county assessor, and the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs can help. 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 Minnesota
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Minnesota
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 Minnesota?
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 Medical Assistance?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medical Assistance is Minnesota Medicaid, based on income. Some people qualify for both, and Minnesota Senior Health Options combines them into one plan.
Is there free Medicare counseling in Minnesota?
Yes. The Senior LinkAge Line, run by the Minnesota Board on Aging, gives free, unbiased Medicare help at 1-800-333-2433. Turnout can also pair you with a dedicated advocate at no cost.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Minnesota
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Minnesota
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
EVALUATION TIMELINE
30 school days
Minnesota schools must complete the initial evaluation within 30 school days of your written consent
Minnesota Dept. of Education, 2026
AN IEP IS
Legally binding
The school must deliver every service written in the plan, by law
IDEA
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
Minnesota schools must complete the initial evaluation and decide if your child is eligible within 30 school days of getting your written consent. If eligible, the team then develops the IEP, and your child is reevaluated at least every three years.
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
Medical Assistance in Minnesota
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Minnesota residents.
Medical Assistance in Minnesota
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Minnesota residents.
Medical Assistance (MA) is Minnesota Medicaid, a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. Minnesota expanded Medicaid, so adults under 65 can qualify with income up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level. Those who earn a little more may qualify for MinnesotaCare, a companion low-cost plan.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
1.1M+
Minnesotans enrolled in Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare (approximate; per DHS/KFF)
Minnesota DHS / KFF, 2026 (approx.)
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most Medical Assistance enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
Minnesota DHS, 2026
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Adults under 65 can qualify with income up to about $21,597 a year for one person in 2026
MNsure 2026 Income Guidelines
Who qualifies
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level (about $21,597/yr for one person)
- Children with household income up to roughly 275% FPL, and pregnant women even higher, both well above the adult limit
- Adults 65 and older, blind, or with a qualifying disability
- SSI recipients are automatically enrolled
How to apply
Apply through MNsure at mnsure.org, the state marketplace, which screens you for Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare, or apply through your county or tribal human services office. Have proof of income, identity, and Minnesota residency ready. Most decisions arrive within 45 days, longer if a disability determination is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota calls its Medicaid program Medical Assistance, or MA. It's the same federal program, run by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, with the same core benefits.
What's the difference between Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare?
Medical Assistance covers adults up to 138 percent of the poverty level, usually with no premium. MinnesotaCare covers people who earn a bit more, up to 200 percent, for a low monthly premium. MNsure checks you for both.
Who qualifies for Medical Assistance in Minnesota?
Adults under 65 up to 138 percent of the poverty level, children and pregnant women at substantially higher limits, seniors, and people with disabilities. Because Minnesota expanded Medicaid, most low-income adults can qualify even without children.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Minnesota
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in Minnesota
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP is a federal program that helps qualifying Minnesota households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto an EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, plus many farmers markets. The program is run by the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families through county and tribal human services offices.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~452,000
Minnesotans received SNAP benefits on average each month in FY2025
USDA / USAFacts, FY2025
GROSS INCOME LIMIT
200% FPG
Minnesota raises the gross income limit to 200% of the poverty guidelines, higher than the federal 130%
Minnesota DHS Combined Manual, 2026
HOW FAST APPROVAL HAPPENS
7 days
Expedited benefits for households with very low income or urgent need; standard processing up to 30 days
USDA / Minnesota DCYF, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines (about $5,200/mo for a family of four)
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Minnesota
- Most adults age 16 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
- Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability follow simpler income rules
How to apply
Apply online through MNbenefits at mnbenefits.mn.gov, or in person at your county or tribal human services office. An interview is required, but it can usually 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 Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota raises the gross income limit to 200 percent of the poverty guidelines, so many working households qualify once deductions for rent, utilities, and childcare are applied. Income alone does not tell the full story.
How long does SNAP approval take in Minnesota?
Up to 30 days for a standard decision. If your household has very low income and limited resources, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days. An interview is required but can usually be done by phone.
Can I use my Minnesota EBT card online or at farmers markets?
Yes. The Minnesota EBT card is accepted at most grocery stores and at retailers like Walmart and Amazon for online orders, plus many farmers markets across the state.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Minnesota
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Minnesota
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 Medical Assistance, SNAP, or MFIP usually qualifies you automatically.
MINNESOTANS SERVED
~102,500
Women, infants, and children under 5 participated in Minnesota WIC on average each month in FFY2025
Minnesota Dept. of Health, FFY2025
ON MEDICAID OR SNAP?
Auto-eligible
Being on Medical Assistance, SNAP, or MFIP automatically meets WIC's income test
Minnesota Dept. of Health
INCOME LIMIT
185% FPG
Households at or below 185% of the poverty guidelines can qualify; higher through certain state programs
Minnesota Dept. of Health, 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 guidelines
- Families already receiving Medical Assistance, SNAP, or MFIP are automatically income-eligible
- Minnesota residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Apply online at health.state.mn.us/wicapply, or call 1-800-942-4030 to find your local WIC clinic. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of Minnesota residency, and proof of household income or proof of Medical Assistance, SNAP, or MFIP enrollment. If approved, you receive your Minnesota eWIC card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC in Minnesota?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by Minnesota's food list and loaded on your eWIC card.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limit is 185 percent of the poverty guidelines, higher than people expect, and being on Medical Assistance 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
Energy Assistance in Minnesota
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
Energy Assistance in Minnesota
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
Minnesota's Energy Assistance Program (EAP) is the state's version of LIHEAP. It helps qualifying households pay their heating bills, with payments made directly to the utility or fuel vendor. The program is federally funded and administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce through local service providers. Crisis help is available when you face a shutoff or run out of fuel.
INCOME LIMIT
50% of state median
Households at or below 50% of the state median income can qualify for heating and crisis help
Minnesota Dept. of Commerce, FFY2026
PRIMARY HEAT HELP
Up to $1,400
Maximum primary heating benefit for the season; additional crisis help is available for emergencies
Minnesota Dept. of Commerce, FFY2026
PAID DIRECTLY
To your utility
The benefit is credited to your energy account or fuel vendor, not paid to you as cash
Minnesota Dept. of Commerce
Who qualifies
- Minnesota households with income at or below 50% of the state median income
- Renters and homeowners paying home energy costs, directly or included in rent
- Priority given to households with older adults, young children, people with disabilities, or high energy burden
- Households on SNAP, MFIP, or SSI are strong candidates for assistance
How to apply
Apply through your local Energy Assistance service provider, not the state directly. Find your provider at mn.gov/commerce or by calling the Energy Assistance line. Bring proof of income for the last three months, a recent energy bill, and any disconnection notice. The application deadline is May 31, so apply early. If approved, the benefit is credited to your utility or fuel vendor.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is too high for Energy Assistance?
Minnesota uses a 50 percent state median income limit, which is higher than many people expect. Even if you are close to the line, apply, since priority is also given to households with high energy burden, older adults, young children, or people with disabilities.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
No. Energy Assistance payments go directly to your utility company or fuel vendor. The benefit is credited to your account, reducing what you owe or preventing a shutoff. You will not receive cash.
Can renters apply, or only homeowners?
Both renters and homeowners can apply. If energy costs are included in your rent, your local service provider can confirm how the benefit applies.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Minnesota
Financial help that reduces the cost of health insurance for qualifying Minnesotans.
ACA Subsidies in Minnesota
Financial help that reduces the cost of health insurance for qualifying Minnesotans.
ACA subsidies are tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan bought through MNsure, Minnesota's own state marketplace. Unlike most states, Minnesota does not use HealthCare.gov. Because Minnesota expanded Medicaid and offers MinnesotaCare, the marketplace mainly serves people above those income limits who need help paying for a private plan.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~139,000
Minnesotans enrolled in a MNsure private marketplace plan for 2026 coverage
MNsure, 2026
WHO GETS HELP PAYING
6 in 10
About 62% of MNsure private-plan enrollees receive advance premium tax credits that lower their monthly cost
MNsure, 2026
WHEN TO ENROLL
Nov 1 -- Jan 15
Open enrollment for the year ahead. Special enrollment is available year-round for qualifying life events
MNsure
Who qualifies
- Minnesotans without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning too much for Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare
- Those not eligible for Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Minnesota
How to apply
Apply online at mnsure.org, Minnesota's state marketplace. Enter household income and size to see your subsidy estimate and available plans, then compare by premium, deductible, and network. MNsure also checks you for Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare. Enroll during open enrollment (Nov 1 to Jan 15) or after a qualifying life event, and free local help is available.
Frequently asked questions
Do I use HealthCare.gov in Minnesota?
No. Minnesota runs its own marketplace, MNsure, so you apply at mnsure.org instead of HealthCare.gov. It is the single place to check for Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, and subsidized private plans.
What if I missed open enrollment?
You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you lost coverage, got married, had a baby, or had another qualifying life event. You generally have 60 days from the event.
What if my income is too low for a MNsure private plan?
Apply anyway. MNsure screens you for Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare, which cover people below the marketplace subsidy range. Because Minnesota expanded Medicaid, most low-income adults have a coverage option.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
MFIP in Minnesota (Minnesota Family Investment Program)
Monthly cash and food support for families with children.
MFIP in Minnesota (Minnesota Family Investment Program)
Monthly cash and food support for families with children.
The Minnesota Family Investment Program, or MFIP, is Minnesota's version of TANF. It provides monthly cash and food help to families with children who have low income. Cash is loaded onto an EBT card and can be used for basic needs like rent, utilities, and transportation. The program is run through the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families and counties, with a federal 60-month lifetime limit and a work component through MFIP Employment Services.
MONTHLY CASH (FAMILY OF 3)
$778
The maximum cash portion for a family of three with no income; a food portion is added on top
Minnesota DHS Combined Manual, 2026
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
The federal lifetime cap on cash assistance for adults, with hardship extensions in Minnesota
Minnesota DHS, 2026
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
$1,533/mo
A family of three generally must have income below the Family Wage Level to start receiving MFIP
Minnesota House Research / DHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Minnesota residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 19 and still in secondary school)
- Families with income below the MFIP Family Wage Level for their household size
- Adults must participate in MFIP Employment Services unless exempt
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through MNbenefits at mnbenefits.mn.gov, or in person at your county or tribal human services office. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. Applying through MNbenefits also screens you for SNAP and health coverage. If approved, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between MFIP and TANF?
They are the same thing. MFIP is Minnesota's name for the federal TANF program, run through the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families. MFIP combines a cash portion and a food portion in one grant.
How long can I receive MFIP in Minnesota?
A federal 60-month lifetime cap applies to adults, though Minnesota allows hardship extensions in certain cases. Some cases become child-only after an adult reaches the limit.
Can I receive MFIP and SNAP at the same time?
MFIP already bundles a food portion with your cash grant, so you receive food help through MFIP rather than a separate SNAP case. Applying at MNbenefits sorts out which programs fit your household.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Minnesota (Working Family Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Minnesota (Working Family 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. Minnesota adds its own version on top, called the Working Family Credit, so Minnesota workers can get both the federal credit and a state credit when they file.
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
MINNESOTA ADDS ON
Working Family Credit
Minnesota pays its own refundable credit on top of the federal EITC when you file a state return
Minnesota Dept. of Revenue, 2026
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
Both the federal EITC and the Minnesota credit are refundable, so you receive them even if you owe nothing
IRS / Minnesota Dept. of Revenue
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal and Minnesota limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- Minnesota workers without children can qualify from age 19, younger than the federal age 25
How to apply
You claim the federal EITC by filing a federal tax return, and you claim the Minnesota Working Family Credit on your state return, even if you don't normally have to file. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers. Filing both returns is how you get the federal credit and the Minnesota credit together.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller credit, and in Minnesota the Working Family Credit reaches childless workers starting at age 19, younger than the federal age 25.
Does Minnesota have its own state EITC?
Yes. Minnesota calls it the Working Family Credit, a refundable state credit paid on top of the federal EITC. You claim it on your Minnesota return through the Department of Revenue.
Will getting EITC affect my other benefits?
Generally no. EITC and Working Family Credit refunds aren't counted as income for programs like SNAP or Medical Assistance, and there are protections so a refund doesn't immediately count against asset limits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Minnesota
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Minnesota
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 when you file your federal return. Minnesota also has its own refundable state Child Tax Credit worth up to $1,750 per child, one of the most generous in the country. Minnesota families can receive both the federal and state credits when they file.
FEDERAL PER CHILD
Up to $2,200
The federal credit for each qualifying child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable
IRS, 2026
MINNESOTA PER CHILD
Up to $1,750
Minnesota's own refundable Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child under 18, with no cap on the number of children
Minnesota Dept. of Revenue, 2026
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Fully refundable
Minnesota's credit is fully refundable, so families receive it even when they owe no state income tax
Minnesota Dept. of Revenue, 2026
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 for the federal credit, or under 18 for the Minnesota credit
- Minnesota credit begins to phase out around $31,950 for single filers and $37,910 for married couples
- Valid Social Security numbers required for the federal credit
- Families can choose to receive part of the Minnesota credit as advance payments during the year
How to apply
You claim the federal Child Tax Credit on your federal return and the Minnesota Child Tax Credit on your state return, even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free VITA filing help walk you through both. Minnesota also lets you choose advance payments so you get part of the state credit before tax time.
Frequently asked questions
Does Minnesota have a state Child Tax Credit?
Yes. Minnesota has a refundable state Child Tax Credit worth up to $1,750 per qualifying child under 18, with no limit on the number of children. It is separate from and added to the federal credit.
Does my child need a Social Security number?
For the federal credit, yes, each qualifying child needs a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date. Check the Minnesota Department of Revenue for the current rules on the state credit.
Can I get the Minnesota credit before tax time?
Yes. Minnesota offers optional advance payments, so you can receive part of your Child Tax Credit in installments during the second half of the year instead of waiting until you file.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Minnesota
Subsidized child care for working Minnesota families.
Child Care Assistance in Minnesota
Subsidized child care for working Minnesota families.
Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps working families pay for child care while parents work, look for work, attend school, or complete training. It includes MFIP Child Care for families on cash assistance and Basic Sliding Fee for other low-income families. The program is run through the state and counties, pays providers directly, and families pay a sliding-scale share based on income.
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a co-pay based on income and family size; lower-income families pay little to nothing
Minnesota DHS, 2026
INCOME LIMIT TO ENTER
47% to 67% of state median
Basic Sliding Fee families enter at or below 47% of state median income; MFIP families enter at or below 67%
Minnesota DHS CCAP Policy Manual, 2026
BASIC SLIDING FEE WAITLIST
Varies by county
Basic Sliding Fee is funding-limited and some counties keep waiting lists, so apply early
Minnesota DHS / Think Small, 2026
Who qualifies
- Minnesota residents with a child under 13, or under 15 with a disability
- Parents who are working, looking for work, in school, or in job training
- Basic Sliding Fee families entering at or below 47% of state median income; MFIP families at or below 67%
- Child is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigration status
How to apply
Apply online through MNbenefits at mnbenefits.mn.gov, or contact your county or tribal human services office. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work, school, or training schedule. Basic Sliding Fee is funding-limited, so some counties keep a waiting list; apply as soon as you know you need care.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose my own child care provider?
Yes. You can choose from licensed centers, licensed family child care, and certain legal nonlicensed providers that meet program rules and register with the county.
What's the difference between MFIP Child Care and Basic Sliding Fee?
MFIP Child Care serves families on or transitioning off MFIP cash assistance and is not funding-limited. Basic Sliding Fee serves other low-income working families and is capped, so it can have a waiting list. Both use a sliding-scale co-pay.
What happens if I'm on the waitlist?
Your application stays active and slots open as funding allows. Families on or leaving MFIP generally do not wait, and some priority groups can enroll directly.
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