Start the New Year with Extra Cash and Smart Financial Moves

Did you know that if you rented or owned a DC home that you lived in during all of 2024, you may qualify for DC’s Schedule H Tax Credit?

This credit is designed to help homeowners and renters with low to moderate incomes offset the cost of housing. What’s even more exciting is that you can claim up to three years of Schedule H tax credits, which, for some people, could mean thousands of dollars back in their pocket. With tax season right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of this valuable benefit—and we’re here to help!

What Is the DC Schedule H Tax Credit?

The DC Schedule H Tax Credit, also called the DC Homeowner and Renter Property Tax Credit (HRPTC), provides up to $1,375 in property tax relief for qualifying residents (the amount varies by tax year). Whether you rent or own your home, this credit is based on the amount of property tax you pay (or help your landlord pay by paying them rent) compared to your income.

Who Qualifies?

You may qualify for the 2024 Schedule H Tax Credit if you meet the following criteria:

You were a DC resident from January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024.
Your 2024 federal adjusted gross income (AGI) was $63,900 or less in 2024 (or $87,100 or less if you are 70 years of age or older).
You are not claimed as a Dependent on someone else’s federal, state, or DC income tax return (unless you reached age 65 on or before December 31, 2024).
The property you lived in is subject to real property taxes. Please note that certain properties, such as public housing or those owned by religious organizations or nonprofits, are exempt from taxes.

When is Schedule H Due?

The 2024 Schedule H form is due by April 15, 2025. However, you have three years from the due date to file and claim the credit. That means that April 15, 2025, is the final deadline to file Schedule H for the 2021 tax year (January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2021).

If you’re not sure whether you qualify, we can help you determine your eligibility during a financial counseling session.

How to Claim the Credit

To claim the DC Schedule H Tax Credit:

 Complete the Schedule H form when filing your DC individual income tax return. If you have already submitted your tax return for a previous year without the Schedule H form, you may file an amended return to include Schedule H.
If you aren’t required to file an income tax return, you can still file the Schedule H form by itself to claim the credit.
Need assistance? We can guide you on where to file your tax forms or connect you to trusted tax preparation resources.

Financial Tips to Make the Most of Your Tax Refund

Tax refunds are a great opportunity to build financial stability. Consider these benefits of saving a portion of your refund:

Emergency Fund: Protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
Debt Repayment: Reduce your high-interest debt and save on interest payments.
Future Financial Goals: Start working toward future goals, such as homeownership, education, or retirement.

If you need help creating a savings plan or deciding how to use your refund to achieve your 2025 financial goals, our financial counseling team is here to help!

Act Now!

Don’t leave money on the table! Schedule a financial counseling appointment with us today to:

Determine if you qualify for the DC Schedule H or any other Tax Credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit.
 Get guidance on where to file your tax return.
Learn strategies to save and maximize your refund.

Your tax refund can be more than just a one-time payment—it can be a stepping stone to financial security. Let us help you make the most of it. Submit a direct inquiry for our services here: Tzedek DC Legal and Financial Counseling Services Inquiry

Visit tzedekdc.org or call us at (202) 274-7386 to learn more.