Make the most of your 2025 tax return by claiming valuable tax credits. Learn which credits you may qualify for and how to avoid leaving money on the table.
When it comes to tax season, everyone wants to lower their bill or increase their refund—but most people don’t realize just how much money they’re leaving on the table. Tax credits are among the most powerful tools in the IRS toolbox to directly reduce what you owe, and in some cases, even boost your refund beyond what you paid in.
Yet, every year, billions of dollars in credits go unclaimed. Whether it’s because taxpayers don’t know they exist, misunderstand the qualifications, or assume they don’t apply, the result is the same: missed money.
Let’s fix that. Below, we’ve rounded up the most impactful, often overlooked, and newly expanded federal tax credits you should know for the 2025 tax year. We’ve also included real-world examples, IRS links, and practical strategies—so you don’t miss a single dollar you’re entitled to.
The Child Tax Credit remains one of the most generous for American families.
For the 2025 tax year, the credit is:
✅ Strategy Tip: The refundable portion, known as the Additional Child Tax Credit, makes this a credit worth claiming—even if you’re not required to file.
The EITC is a financial boost for workers earning moderate-to-low wages—and it’s surprisingly underused by eligible taxpayers without kids.
📎 Check Your EITC Eligibility →
✅ Example: A single parent with two children earning $38,000 could qualify for over $6,000 in credits—even if they paid little to no federal tax.
If you’re saving for the future in a retirement account like a 401(k), Traditional IRA, or Roth IRA, the Saver’s Credit can give you up to $1,000 ($2,000 for married couples).
You must be:
✅ Pro Tip: You have until April 15, 2026, to contribute to an IRA and still claim the 2025 credit.
This is a must-claim for undergrads or parents paying for their education.
✅ Example: If you paid $4,000 in tuition and textbooks in 2025, you could receive the full $2,500 credit—even if your tax bill is zero.
Don’t qualify for AOTC? You may still qualify for the LLC, which applies to all years of higher education—even part-time or vocational training.
✅ Tip: If you’re investing in a new skill or certification, don’t forget this credit—even online classes may qualify.
Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, this credit got a major boost.
✅ Example: Spend $5,000 upgrading to energy-efficient windows and insulation? You may receive a $1,500 credit back.
Whether you’re buying new or used, there’s a credit for you in 2025.
✅ New for 2025: Transfer the credit at point of sale—apply the discount instantly and skip waiting for tax season.
If you purchase health insurance through the Marketplace, the Premium Tax Credit helps pay premiums based on your income.
📎 HealthCare.gov Tax Credit Tool →
✅ Tip: If your income changes mid-year, update it on the Marketplace site to avoid surprise repayment.
This credit is available to working parents and caregivers who paid for services like:
📎 IRS Child & Dependent Care Credit →
✅ Example: Paid $5,000 for daycare? You could receive a $1,500–$2,500 credit, depending on your income.
Adopting a child is expensive, but the IRS helps families offset costs through this valuable credit.
✅ Strategy: If you adopt a child with special needs, you may qualify for the full credit, even if your expenses were lower.
Too often, these credits go unclaimed—either because people think they don’t apply, or they simply didn’t know they existed. Don’t make that mistake in 2025.
Here’s how to make sure you get every dollar you’re owed:
At Vincere Tax, we specialize in helping individuals and families like you navigate the complex world of tax credits. Whether you’re a student, parent, retiree, or business owner—there’s likely a credit you qualify for.
Missing a tax credit is like handing the IRS a tip—and no one wants to do that.
Let Vincere Tax help you discover and claim every credit you deserve. Don’t wait until next April—start planning today.
📎 Book a Free Credit Review with Vincere Tax →
A credit reduces the amount of tax you owe, dollar for dollar. A deduction lowers your taxable income.
No. You can’t claim both the AOTC and LLC for the same student in the same year. But you can claim them for different students.
Yes! Refundable credits can get you a refund even if you don’t owe taxes—nonrefundable credits only reduce your liability to zero.
Yes—but tax software may miss nuanced credits. That’s why working with a qualified tax pro can ensure nothing is overlooked.
Yes. The deadline to file your 2025 return and claim all applicable credits is April 15, 2026.
Being audited is comparable to being struck by lightning. You don't want to practice pole vaulting in a thunderstorm just because it's unlikely. Making sure your books are accurate and your taxes are filed on time is one of the best ways to keep your head down during tax season. Check out Vincere's take on tax season!
This post is just for informational purposes and is not meant to be legal, business, or tax advice. Regarding the matters discussed in this post, each individual should consult his or her own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor. Vincere accepts no responsibility for actions taken in reliance on the information contained in this document.
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