Predicting Tax Credits: How Income Volatility and Family Dynamics Affect Intended Beneficiaries

Many low- and moderate-income families rely on the earned income tax credit and child tax credit to cover expenses. But calculating these benefits can be difficult and unpredictable, making it harder for these households to plan their finances. Each year, families must calculate their credit based largely on earnings, number of children, and marital status, all of which can change from one year to the next.

How does this affect the financial stability of low-income households? And what could policymakers do to address the issue? Join the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center to hear from experts on the challenges and opportunities for distributing these benefits through the tax code.