Question:   My wife and I have two children and we are going to file separate returns this year. Can we each claim one child for the earned income credit?

Answer:   No. In order to qualify for the earned income credit, your filing status cannot be married filing separately.

• If you are married, you usually must file a joint return to claim the earned income credit.
• However, if you are married and your spouse did not live in your home at any time during the last 6 months of the year, you may be able to file as head of household.
• In that case, you may be able to claim the earned income credit.

For 2011, if you have two qualifying children your adjusted gross income must less than $40,964 ($46,044 if married filing jointly) to qualify for the earned income credit.