The earned income credit is a tax credit for certain people who work and have earned income and adjusted gross income under a specified limit.

For 2011, earned income and adjusted gross income must be less than:

• $43,998 ($49,078 if married filing jointly) with three or more qualifying children
• $40,964 ($46,044 if married filing jointly) with two qualifying children
• $36,052 ($41,132 if married filing jointly) with one qualifying child
• $13,660 ($18,740 if married filing jointly) with no qualifying children

This credit is called the "earned income" credit because to qualify, you must work and have earned income. Earned income includes wages, salaries, and tips that are includible in gross income and net earnings from self-employment earnings.

Many rules apply to the earned income credit.

Be patient as you learn about the requirements to claim the credit.