$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
North Carolina Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in North Carolina
SSDI in North Carolina - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in North Carolina - 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. And because North Carolina expanded Medicaid in December 2023, many SSDI recipients now qualify for Medicaid too while they wait out that 24-month period.
How long does SSDI take in North Carolina?
North Carolina 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 North Carolina - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in North Carolina - 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 North Carolina, getting SSI also automatically enrolls you in Medicaid.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026. North Carolina does not add a general state supplement
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
WHO CAN QUALIFY
No work history
SSI is based on need, not your work record. People 65+, blind, or disabled can qualify
SSA
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
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 North Carolina?
Yes. SSI approval automatically enrolls you in North Carolina Medicaid. No separate application is needed.
Does North Carolina add to my SSI payment?
Generally no. North Carolina does not pay a general state supplement, so most recipients get only the federal amount. A separate program called State-County Special Assistance can add payments, but only for people living in an adult care home or receiving in-home care, not as a general top-up.
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 North Carolina
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in North Carolina
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
IRS
NC PROPERTY TAX BREAK
$45,000 excluded
North Carolina excludes the first $45,000 of home value from property tax for veterans rated 100% permanent and total
N.C.G.S. 105-277.1C, 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 North Carolina offer any extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. North Carolina excludes the first $45,000 of your home value from property tax if you are rated 100 percent permanently and totally disabled, with no income or age limit, and an unremarried surviving spouse can qualify too. The NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs can help you file. 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 North Carolina
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in North Carolina
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 North Carolina?
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 Medicaid in North Carolina?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medicaid is based on income, and North Carolina expanded it in 2023 so more adults now qualify. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
Is there free Medicare counseling in North Carolina?
Yes. SHIIP, the Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program run by the NC Department of Insurance, offers free unbiased Medicare counseling in all 100 counties. You can reach SHIIP at 1-855-408-1212. Turnout can also work alongside that help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in North Carolina
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in North Carolina
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
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education
NC EVALUATION DEADLINE
90 calendar days
North Carolina schools must evaluate, decide eligibility, and place services within 90 days of a written referral
NC DPI Policies, 2026
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
North Carolina sets a single 90-calendar-day deadline. From the date the school receives your written referral, it must finish the evaluation, decide whether your child is eligible, and place services within 90 days. Those are calendar days, so holidays and breaks still count.
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 North Carolina
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying North Carolina residents.
Medicaid in North Carolina
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying North Carolina residents.
North Carolina Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. North Carolina expanded Medicaid on December 1, 2023, so adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level now qualify, including many childless adults who were shut out before. Most people get their care through an NC Medicaid Managed Care health plan.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
3M+
North Carolinians enrolled in Medicaid as of late 2025, including almost 690,000 through expansion
NCDHHS, 2025 (approx.)
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
NCDHHS, 2026
NEW ADULT INCOME LIMIT
$1,835/mo
A single adult can earn up to about $1,835 a month (138% of the poverty level) and qualify after expansion
NCDHHS Eligibility, 2026
Who qualifies
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level, about $1,835 a month for one person
- Children through age 18, with higher income limits (NC Health Choice is now part of Medicaid)
- Pregnant people, with coverage that continues 12 months after birth
- Adults 65 and older, blind, or with a qualifying disability
- SSI recipients are automatically enrolled
How to apply
Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov, in person at your county Department of Social Services, or by calling the NC Medicaid Contact Center at 1-888-245-0179. Have proof of income, identity, and North Carolina residency ready. Most decisions arrive within 45 days, longer if a disability determination is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in North Carolina?
No. North Carolina keeps the name Medicaid, run by NC Medicaid within NCDHHS. NC Health Choice, the old children's program, was folded into Medicaid in 2023, so there is one program now.
I was denied before because I had no kids. Should I reapply?
Yes. Since expansion took effect in December 2023, adults ages 19 to 64 can qualify based on income alone, with no requirement to have children and no asset test. If you were turned down before, apply again.
What's the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is based on income. Medicare is based mainly on age or disability. Some people qualify for both.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in North Carolina (Food and Nutrition Services)
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in North Carolina (Food and Nutrition Services)
Monthly grocery benefits on an EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP, called Food and Nutrition Services or FNS in North Carolina, is a federal program that helps qualifying households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto an EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, Walmart, and many farmers markets. The program is run by NCDHHS through your county Department of Social Services.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~1.44 million
North Carolinians received Food and Nutrition Services benefits in FY2025, about 13% of the state
USDA / USAFacts, FY2025
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$994/mo
Federal maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026
USDA, FY2026
HOW FAST APPROVAL HAPPENS
7 days
Expedited benefits for households with very low income or urgent need; standard processing within 30 days
NCDHHS / USDA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, higher than the usual 130% because North Carolina uses broad-based categorical eligibility
- Most households have no asset test under the same rule
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in North Carolina
- Most adults age 16 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
How to apply
Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov, or in person at your county Department of Social Services. 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
What is SNAP called in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, SNAP is called Food and Nutrition Services, or FNS. It is the same federal food program, just under a different name, run by NCDHHS through county DSS offices.
I work full-time. Can I still qualify in North Carolina?
Yes. Because North Carolina uses broad-based categorical eligibility, households can qualify with gross income up to 200 percent of the poverty level, and most have no asset test. Many working households qualify once deductions are applied.
Can I use my EBT card online or at farmers markets?
Yes. The North Carolina 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 North Carolina
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in North Carolina
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 Medicaid, Food and Nutrition Services, or Work First usually qualifies you automatically.
INCOME LIMIT
185% FPL
Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level can qualify, about $4,109 a month for a family of three
NC WIC / NCDHHS, 2025-2026
ON MEDICAID OR FNS?
Auto-eligible
Being on Medicaid, Food and Nutrition Services, or Work First automatically meets the WIC income test
NC WIC / USDA
WHO IT'S FOR
Through age 5
Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5
USDA / NC WIC
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 Medicaid, Food and Nutrition Services, or Work First are automatically income-eligible
- North Carolina residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
To start, find your local WIC agency using the NC WIC County Directory, enter your ZIP code at signupwic.com, or call 1-844-601-6881 to set up an appointment. Bring ID for each person applying, proof of North Carolina residency, and proof of income or proof of Medicaid, Food and Nutrition Services, or Work First enrollment. If approved, you receive your NC eWIC card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC in North Carolina?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. In North Carolina the benefits load onto your NC eWIC card, and the approved items are set by the state food list.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limit reaches 185 percent of the poverty level, and being on Medicaid or Food and Nutrition Services 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 North Carolina (LIEAP)
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in North Carolina (LIEAP)
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
North Carolina's Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) helps qualifying households pay their heating bills, with a one-time payment sent directly to your energy vendor. A separate year-round Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) helps when you face a heating or cooling emergency. Both are federally funded and run by NCDHHS through your county Department of Social Services.
INCOME LIMIT
130% FPL
Households at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines can qualify for LIEAP heating help
NCDHHS / LIHEAP Clearinghouse, 2026
HEATING BENEFIT
$300 to $500
A one-time heating payment, with the amount based on your situation, paid straight to your energy vendor
LIHEAP Clearinghouse, 2026
WHEN TO APPLY
Dec 1 -- Mar 31
Households with an older adult or a person with a disability can apply starting Dec 1; all others starting Jan 1, until funds run out
NCDHHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- North Carolina households with income at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines for LIEAP heating help
- Households facing a heating or cooling emergency may qualify for the Crisis Intervention Program at a higher income limit
- Priority given to households with an older adult or a person with a disability
- Households on Food and Nutrition Services, Work First, or SSI are strong candidates
How to apply
Apply through your county Department of Social Services or online at epass.nc.gov. Bring a current heating bill, photo ID, proof of income, and any disconnection notice. Households with a member who is 60 or older or has a disability can apply starting December 1, and all other households starting January 1, through March 31 or until funds run out, so apply early. If approved, the payment goes directly to your energy vendor.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between LIEAP and the Crisis Intervention Program?
LIEAP is a one-time seasonal heating payment for income-eligible households. The Crisis Intervention Program, or CIP, is available year-round when you face a heating or cooling emergency, like a shutoff notice. You can receive help from both in the same year.
What if my income is a little too high for LIEAP?
LIEAP heating help uses a 130 percent poverty guideline limit, but the Crisis Intervention Program uses a higher limit, so you may still qualify for crisis help even if LIEAP turns you down.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
No. The payment goes directly to your heating vendor and is credited to your account. You will not receive cash.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in North Carolina
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying North Carolinians.
ACA Subsidies in North Carolina
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying North Carolinians.
ACA subsidies are federal tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan bought through HealthCare.gov, the federal marketplace. North Carolina uses the federal marketplace rather than running its own. Since North Carolina expanded Medicaid, adults with the lowest incomes may now qualify for Medicaid instead, while the marketplace covers those who earn more.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
761,457
North Carolinians who selected an ACA marketplace plan for 2026, down about 22% from 2025 as enhanced subsidies expired
CMS / healthinsurance.org, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES FOR SUBSIDIES
~9 in 10
About 87% of North Carolina marketplace enrollees receive premium tax credits that lower their monthly cost
CMS, 2026
WHEN TO ENROLL
Nov 1 -- Jan 15
Open enrollment for the coming year. Special enrollment is available year-round for qualifying life events
HealthCare.gov
Who qualifies
- North Carolinians without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning at or above 100% of the federal poverty level
- Those not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in North Carolina
How to apply
Apply online at HealthCare.gov. Enter household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and available 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 North Carolina run its own health insurance marketplace?
No. North Carolina uses the federal marketplace, so you enroll through HealthCare.gov rather than a state-run exchange. The subsidies are federal and apply the same way.
What if my income is too low for ACA subsidies?
Apply anyway, and HealthCare.gov will check you for Medicaid. Because North Carolina expanded Medicaid in 2023, many adults with lower incomes now qualify for Medicaid instead of a marketplace plan.
How much can I save with subsidies?
It depends on your income, household size, and plan. About 87 percent of North Carolina enrollees receive subsidies, applied automatically when you enroll through HealthCare.gov.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in North Carolina (Work First)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in North Carolina (Work First)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
Work First is North Carolina's version of TANF. It provides short-term cash to families with children who have very limited income, along with help finding and keeping a job. The cash is loaded onto an EBT card and can be used for basic needs like rent, utilities, and transportation. The program is run by NCDHHS through your county Department of Social Services and comes with a federal 60-month lifetime limit.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$272
The maximum monthly cash payment for a family of three with no countable income. This is the benefit paid, not the income limit
NCDHHS Work First, 2026
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
$544/mo
A family of three must have countable income below this need standard to qualify, a separate and higher number than the cash payment
NCDHHS Work First, 2026
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
The federal lifetime cap on cash assistance for adults, with a 24-month work-services window along the way
NCDHHS Work First, 2026
Who qualifies
- North Carolina residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 19 and still in secondary school)
- Families with countable income below the need standard, about $544 a month for a family of three
- Families with countable resources at or below $3,000
- Adults must take part in Work First employment services unless deferred
How to apply
Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov, or in person at your county Department of Social Services. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. Applying also screens you for Food and Nutrition Services. If approved, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Work First and TANF?
They are the same thing. Work First is simply North Carolina's name for the federal TANF program, run by NCDHHS through county DSS offices.
How much cash will I actually get?
The maximum is $272 a month for a family of three with no other income, one of the lowest grants in the country. The amount you receive is based on a formula, so it can be less. Note that the $544 need standard is the income limit to qualify, not the cash you get.
Can I receive Work First and Food and Nutrition Services at the same time?
Yes. Work First recipients are generally categorically eligible for Food and Nutrition Services and Medicaid. Applying at ePASS screens you for food benefits at the same time.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in North Carolina (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in North Carolina (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. The amount depends on your income and family size, and you have to file a tax return to claim it. North Carolina repealed its state EITC after 2013, so only the federal credit applies here.
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
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
The EITC is refundable, so you receive the full amount as a refund even if you owe nothing
IRS
NC STATE EITC
None
North Carolina repealed its state EITC after tax year 2013, so only the federal credit is available
NCDOR / CBPP, 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
- And more, including limits on investment income
How to apply
You claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file. Claim it for the year you qualified, and you can still file for past years you missed. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers. North Carolina does not add a state EITC, so there is nothing extra to file at the state level.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller credit, and having children increases the amount.
Does North Carolina have its own state EITC?
No. North Carolina had a state earned income tax credit but repealed it after tax year 2013, and it was the only state ever to do so. Only the federal EITC is available to North Carolina workers now.
Will getting EITC affect my other benefits?
Generally no. EITC refunds aren't counted as income for programs like Food and Nutrition Services or Medicaid, and there are protections so a refund doesn't immediately count against asset limits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in North Carolina
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in North Carolina
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 North Carolina 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. North Carolina does not offer a refundable state child tax credit, but it does offer a state Child Deduction that lowers your state taxable income.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS
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
NC CHILD DEDUCTION
Up to $3,000
North Carolina offers a state Child Deduction of up to $3,000 per child based on income, instead of a refundable state credit
NCDOR, 2026
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the federal credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full federal 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, 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. North Carolina's Child Deduction is claimed on your state return.
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 federal 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 North Carolina have a state Child Tax Credit?
Not a refundable credit. North Carolina offers a Child Deduction of up to $3,000 per child that reduces your state taxable income, with the amount based on your filing status and income. It lowers what you owe in state tax rather than paying cash back.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in North Carolina
Subsidized child care for working North Carolina families.
Child Care Assistance in North Carolina
Subsidized child care for working North Carolina families.
North Carolina's Child Care Subsidy Program 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 NCDHHS through the Division of Child Development and Early Education and your county Department of Social Services. The program pays providers directly, with families paying a share of up to about 10 percent of their income.
PARENT SHARE
Up to ~10%
Families pay a co-pay of up to about 10% of their income toward care; lower-income families pay less
NC DCDEE, 2026
INCOME LIMIT TO ENTER
200% FPL
Families with a child under 6 or with special needs can enter at or below 200% of the poverty level; the limit is 133% for school-age children
NC DCDEE / NC Child, 2026
WAITLIST
Thousands waiting
Many counties keep a waitlist; around 8,000 children were waiting in early 2026, so apply early
NC DCDEE / EdNC, 2026
Who qualifies
- North Carolina residents with a child under 13, or under 19 with a disability
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in job training
- Households at or below 200% of the poverty level for children under 6 or with special needs, or 133% for school-age children
- Child is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigration status
How to apply
Apply through your county Department of Social Services, which administers the subsidy locally. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work, school, or training schedule. Many counties keep a waitlist, so apply as soon as you know you need care. If approved, payment goes directly to your chosen provider.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose my own child care provider?
Yes. You can choose any provider that participates in the subsidy program, including licensed child care centers and licensed family child care homes.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
Families pay a co-pay of up to about 10 percent of their income, with lower-income families paying less. The subsidy covers the rest, paid directly to your provider.
What happens if I'm on the waitlist?
Your application stays active and slots are filled as funding allows. Around 8,000 children were on North Carolina waitlists in early 2026, so apply as early as you can and keep your contact information current.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
