With almost half of the workers born between 1946 and 1960 expected to work past age 70, U.S. Rep. Mike Carey (R-OH) on April 21 sponsored a bipartisan bill that would eliminate the age cap for workers to qualify for the earned-income tax credit (EITC), which currently may only be claimed by workers between the ages of 25-65.
“America’s workforce has changed since the EITC was established in 1975. Many Americans are working longer, and a rising retirement age should be reflected in the program,” Rep. Carey said. “Certain Americans should not be prevented from accessing critical tax provisions because of their age. I am proud to lead this bipartisan, common-sense effort to give them a boost in Ohio and across the country.”
The congressman introduced the EITC for Older Workers Act of 2025, H.R. 2972, alongside lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the upper age limit on eligibility for the EITC, which is a refundable tax credit for low- to moderate-income workers and families who may use the credit to reduce the taxes they owe.
The credit amount is based on several factors, including the amount of income earned, the number of qualifying children, and the marital status of an individual, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“The EITC is a powerful tool to reduce poverty and help low-income workers,” Rep. Davis said. “With workers aged 65 and older representing one of the fastest-growing groups in our labor force, I proudly join with Rep. Carey to give permanent tax relief to older Americans by removing the age cap on the EITC.”
The measure is endorsed by AARP, the Critical Labor Coalition, and Golden State Opportunity.