{"content_id":"gc04aigilb","slug":"2026-earned-income-tax-credit-semiannual-application","locale":"en","schema_type":"HowTo","category":"how_to","category_name":"How-to","title":"How to File a Semiannual EITC Application for the First Half of 2026: Eligibility, Payment, and Recovery","summary":"The semiannual application period for the first-half 2026 Earned Income Tax Credit is September 1–15, 2026. After checking the types of income earned by the applicant and spouse, their combined 2025 income, and their assets, you must apply through Hometax. The amount paid may be supplemented or recovered during the 2027 settlement process.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["First, confirm that both the applicant and spouse have only earned income in 2026.","Check the couple’s combined total income for 2025 and the household members’ total assets as of June 1, 2025.","Prepare an identity verification method and the account information for receiving payment, then apply through Hometax from September 1 to 15, 2026.","After applying, check the review status and the payment outcome by December 30, 2026, through Hometax.","Check the June 2027 settlement results and follow the applicable procedure if notified of an additional payment or recovery."],"content_markdown":"Applications for the first-half 2026 semiannual Earned Income Tax Credit will be accepted **from September 1 through September 15, 2026**. Eligible households are those in which both the applicant and spouse have only earned income in 2026. Before applying, applicants should check their combined 2025 gross income with their spouse, household members’ assets as of June 1, 2025, and an account in their own name.\n\nApplications can be submitted through the National Tax Service Hometax menu under **Incentives, Year-End Tax Settlement, and Donations \u003e Semiannual Earned Income Tax Credit Application**. Even if applicants have not received an application notice from the National Tax Service, they may apply directly if they believe they meet the requirements.\n\n## Key Requirements to Check Before Applying\n\nAll of the following conditions must be reviewed.\n\n1. **Type of income:** Both the applicant and spouse must have only earned income in 2026.\n2. **Gross income:** The applicant’s and spouse’s combined 2025 gross income must be less than the threshold for their household type.\n3. **Assets:** The total assets of household members as of June 1, 2025, must be less than KRW 240 million.\n4. **Other disqualifying conditions:** The household must not fall under any general Earned Income Tax Credit exclusions, such as nationality requirements or being another resident’s dependent child.\n\n### Gross Income Thresholds and Maximum Calculated Amounts by Household Type\n\n| Household type | Combined 2025 gross income threshold for applicant and spouse | Maximum annual calculated amount |\n|---|---:|---:|\n| Single household | Less than KRW 22 million | KRW 1.65 million |\n| Single-income household | Less than KRW 32 million | KRW 2.85 million |\n| Dual-income household | Less than KRW 44 million | KRW 3.3 million |\n\nThe amounts in the table are annual maximums. The actual calculated amount varies depending on household type, total wages, and other factors, and a lower income does not always result in the maximum amount.\n\nHousehold type is classified based on whether the household has a spouse, dependent children, or direct ascendants, as well as the income levels of the applicant and spouse. Detailed criteria should be checked on Hometax. A household with a spouse may be classified as either single-income or dual-income depending on each spouse’s total wages and other factors, so applicants should verify the household type shown on Hometax.\n\n### Items Included in Assets\n\nThe total assets may include the following items owned by household members.\n\n- Homes, land, and buildings\n- Passenger vehicles\n- Jeonse deposits and rental security deposits\n- Financial assets such as savings and installment savings\n- Securities and membership rights\n- Rights to acquire real estate\n\nLiabilities are generally not deducted when calculating assets. The reduction thresholds and payment rates based on total assets should be checked in the Hometax guidance for the applicable year.\n\n## How to Apply Through Hometax\n\n### 1. Check the Type of Income\n\nCheck whether the applicant or spouse has any income other than earned income in 2026, such as business income or religious worker income. Do not base the determination solely on whether a business is registered; use the income information that will actually be reported.\n\n### 2. Prepare Household, Income, and Asset Information\n\nChecking the following information in advance can reduce application errors.\n\n- Household composition according to resident registration and spouse information\n- Combined 2025 gross income of the applicant and spouse\n- Assets held by each household member as of June 1, 2025\n- A means of identity verification\n- An account number in the applicant’s name for receiving the credit\n- The individual authentication number, if an application notice was received from the National Tax Service\n\n### 3. Access Hometax During the Application Period\n\nAccess Hometax from September 1 through September 15, 2026, and go to **Incentives, Year-End Tax Settlement, and Donations \u003e Semiannual Earned Income Tax Credit Application**. Those who received an application notice can review the prefilled information, while applicants who did not receive a notice can enter the information themselves and apply.\n\nNotice recipients who have difficulty using the internet may use the official application methods shown in the notice, such as the National Tax Service’s automated telephone service. It is advisable to confirm the telephone number and eligible users again in the National Tax Service notice for the applicable year.\n\n### 4. Review the Application Before Submission\n\nCheck the following items again before submitting.\n\n- Whether any income other than earned income, including the spouse’s income, has been omitted\n- Whether June 1, 2025, rather than the application date, was used as the asset reference date\n- Whether jeonse deposits and financial assets were included\n- Whether the account number and account holder information are correct\n\n### 5. Check Receipt and Review Results\n\nAfter applying, check Hometax to confirm receipt and monitor the review status. The estimated amount stated in the application notice is not the final payment amount. The National Tax Service determines eligibility and the payment amount after reviewing income and asset information.\n\n## Payment Amount and December Payment Method\n\nThe payment for the first half is calculated based on **35% of the estimated annual calculated amount**. Amounts that pass review are scheduled to be paid **by December 30, 2026**.\n\nHowever, the actual deposited amount may differ or payment may be withheld in the following cases.\n\n- The total assets fall within a reduction range\n- There is a statutory reason for deduction, such as allocation toward delinquent taxes\n- The scheduled first-half payment falls under a payment-withholding threshold\n- Collected income and asset information indicates a high likelihood of future recovery\n- The application details differ from information verified by the National Tax Service\n\nThe semiannual application system does not finalize the credit based solely on first-half wages. It is an advance-payment and settlement structure in which a portion is paid first and then recalculated after annual income is confirmed.\n\n## Automatic Second-Half Application and 2027 Settlement\n\nApplying for the first half of 2026 is treated as also applying for the second half of 2026, so the same household generally does not need to apply again for the second half.\n\nThe National Tax Service will verify the annual income and asset requirements for 2026 and settle the annual credit in **June 2027**.\n\n- If the amount received in advance is less than the final calculated amount, the difference will be paid additionally.\n- If the amount received in advance is greater than the final calculated amount, the excess may be recovered.\n- If the final requirements are not met, the entire amount already paid may be subject to recovery.\n\nIf the applicant or spouse is found to have income other than earned income, such as business income, the household will be excluded from semiannual payment eligibility, and the application may be treated as a regular application and processed according to the regular review schedule. In this case, the settlement timing may differ from that of households making standard semiannual applications based solely on earned income.\n\n## Treatment When Business Income Is Also Earned\n\nThe semiannual application system is designed to allow households with only earned income to receive part of the credit in advance in line with when wages are earned. If the applicant or spouse also has business income or similar income, accurately calculating the credit before annual income is finalized is difficult, so the application is processed under the regular application method.\n\nFor example, even if the applicant receives only wages from a company, the household may not be treated as having only earned income if the spouse has business income. Applicants should also check whether money received from delivery, sales, or freelance activities was submitted as business income under tax law.\n\nHaving income other than earned income does not immediately eliminate eligibility for the credit. It means that, instead of receiving semiannual payments, the household will undergo a regular review after annual income is finalized. Final eligibility is determined based on all requirements, including gross income and assets.\n\n## Preliminary Checks to Reduce Recovery Risk\n\nFor the 2026 review, the collection of local tax assessment information will be moved forward, allowing the National Tax Service to withhold first-half payments in advance for some applicants who are expected to face recovery at settlement. Payment withholding does not immediately mean final disqualification. The final settlement will be based on subsequently confirmed annual income and assets.\n\nTo reduce the possibility of recovery, it is important to check the following before applying.\n\n- The spouse’s types of income, including wages, business income, and religious worker income\n- Changes in annual wages due to leaving a job midyear, changing jobs, or working for multiple employers\n- Household members’ real estate, vehicles, savings, and jeonse deposits\n- Differences between household members entered in the application and National Tax Service information\n- Whether the estimated calculated amount has been mistaken for an already finalized payment amount\n\nIf the National Tax Service requests corrections or supporting information, documents explaining the facts must be submitted within the specified period. Required documents, such as lease agreements, wage statements, and family relationship records, vary depending on the reason for the request.\n\n## Records to Keep After Applying\n\nApplicants should not stop after checking the application completion screen. It is advisable to retain the following records.\n\n- Receipt number and application date\n- Household type displayed at the time of application\n- Income and asset details entered or reviewed\n- Payment account information\n- National Tax Service correction requests and submitted documents\n- Payment determination and 2027 settlement notice\n\nThese records can help identify what information changed if the payment amount differs from the estimate or a recovery notice is received. In particular, it is safer to retain objective documentation of the asset reference date and the spouse’s type of income rather than relying solely on memory from the time of application.\n\n## Differences Between Regular and Semiannual Applications\n\n| Category | Semiannual application | Regular application |\n|---|---|---|\n| Primary eligible households | Households in which both the applicant and spouse have only earned income | Eligible households with earned income, business income, religious worker income, or similar income |\n| First-half 2026 application | September 1–15, 2026 | Not applicable |\n| Payment structure | Partial advance payment of the estimated annual calculated amount, followed by settlement | Payment after review based on annual income |\n| Procedure after first-half application | Automatic second-half application and settlement the following year | Application during the regular application period the following year |\n| Possibility of excess payment | Recovery may occur depending on the settlement result | Relatively low because finalized annual information is used |\n\nHouseholds with only earned income may review whether the semiannual or regular application method is available to them, but they cannot receive duplicate credit payments for the same income year.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eApplications for the first-half 2026 semiannual Earned Income Tax Credit will be accepted \u003cstrong\u003efrom September 1 through September 15, 2026\u003c/strong\u003e. Eligible households are those in which both the applicant and spouse have only earned income in 2026. Before applying, applicants should check their combined 2025 gross income with their spouse, household members’ assets as of June 1, 2025, and an account in their own name.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApplications can be submitted through the National Tax Service Hometax menu under \u003cstrong\u003eIncentives, Year-End Tax Settlement, and Donations \u0026gt; Semiannual Earned Income Tax Credit Application\u003c/strong\u003e. Even if applicants have not received an application notice from the National Tax Service, they may apply directly if they believe they meet the requirements.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#key-requirements-to-check-before-applying\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"key-requirements-to-check-before-applying\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eKey Requirements to Check Before Applying\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll of the following conditions must be reviewed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType of income:\u003c/strong\u003e Both the applicant and spouse must have only earned income in 2026.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGross income:\u003c/strong\u003e The applicant’s and spouse’s combined 2025 gross income must be less than the threshold for their household type.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAssets:\u003c/strong\u003e The total assets of household members as of June 1, 2025, must be less than KRW 240 million.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOther disqualifying conditions:\u003c/strong\u003e The household must not fall under any general Earned Income Tax Credit exclusions, such as nationality requirements or being another resident’s dependent child.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#gross-income-thresholds-and-maximum-calculated-amounts-by-household-type\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"gross-income-thresholds-and-maximum-calculated-amounts-by-household-type\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eGross Income Thresholds and Maximum Calculated Amounts by Household Type\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHousehold type\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCombined 2025 gross income threshold for applicant and spouse\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMaximum annual calculated amount\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Household type\"\u003eSingle household\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Combined 2025 gross income threshold for applicant and spouse\"\u003eLess than KRW 22 million\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Maximum annual calculated amount\"\u003eKRW 1.65 million\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Household type\"\u003eSingle-income household\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Combined 2025 gross income threshold for applicant and spouse\"\u003eLess than KRW 32 million\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Maximum annual calculated amount\"\u003eKRW 2.85 million\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Household type\"\u003eDual-income household\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Combined 2025 gross income threshold for applicant and spouse\"\u003eLess than KRW 44 million\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Maximum annual calculated amount\"\u003eKRW 3.3 million\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amounts in the table are annual maximums. The actual calculated amount varies depending on household type, total wages, and other factors, and a lower income does not always result in the maximum amount.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHousehold type is classified based on whether the household has a spouse, dependent children, or direct ascendants, as well as the income levels of the applicant and spouse. Detailed criteria should be checked on Hometax. A household with a spouse may be classified as either single-income or dual-income depending on each spouse’s total wages and other factors, so applicants should verify the household type shown on Hometax.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#items-included-in-assets\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"items-included-in-assets\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eItems Included in Assets\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe total assets may include the following items owned by household members.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHomes, land, and buildings\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePassenger vehicles\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJeonse deposits and rental security deposits\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinancial assets such as savings and installment savings\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSecurities and membership rights\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRights to acquire real estate\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiabilities are generally not deducted when calculating assets. The reduction thresholds and payment rates based on total assets should be checked in the Hometax guidance for the applicable year.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-to-apply-through-hometax\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-to-apply-through-hometax\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow to Apply Through Hometax\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#1-check-the-type-of-income\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"1-check-the-type-of-income\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e1. Check the Type of Income\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck whether the applicant or spouse has any income other than earned income in 2026, such as business income or religious worker income. Do not base the determination solely on whether a business is registered; use the income information that will actually be reported.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#2-prepare-household-income-and-asset-information\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"2-prepare-household-income-and-asset-information\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e2. Prepare Household, Income, and Asset Information\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChecking the following information in advance can reduce application errors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHousehold composition according to resident registration and spouse information\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCombined 2025 gross income of the applicant and spouse\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAssets held by each household member as of June 1, 2025\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA means of identity verification\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn account number in the applicant’s name for receiving the credit\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe individual authentication number, if an application notice was received from the National Tax Service\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#3-access-hometax-during-the-application-period\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"3-access-hometax-during-the-application-period\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e3. Access Hometax During the Application Period\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccess Hometax from September 1 through September 15, 2026, and go to \u003cstrong\u003eIncentives, Year-End Tax Settlement, and Donations \u0026gt; Semiannual Earned Income Tax Credit Application\u003c/strong\u003e. Those who received an application notice can review the prefilled information, while applicants who did not receive a notice can enter the information themselves and apply.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotice recipients who have difficulty using the internet may use the official application methods shown in the notice, such as the National Tax Service’s automated telephone service. It is advisable to confirm the telephone number and eligible users again in the National Tax Service notice for the applicable year.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#4-review-the-application-before-submission\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"4-review-the-application-before-submission\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e4. Review the Application Before Submission\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck the following items again before submitting.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether any income other than earned income, including the spouse’s income, has been omitted\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether June 1, 2025, rather than the application date, was used as the asset reference date\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether jeonse deposits and financial assets were included\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether the account number and account holder information are correct\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#5-check-receipt-and-review-results\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"5-check-receipt-and-review-results\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e5. Check Receipt and Review Results\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter applying, check Hometax to confirm receipt and monitor the review status. The estimated amount stated in the application notice is not the final payment amount. The National Tax Service determines eligibility and the payment amount after reviewing income and asset information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#payment-amount-and-december-payment-method\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"payment-amount-and-december-payment-method\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003ePayment Amount and December Payment Method\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe payment for the first half is calculated based on \u003cstrong\u003e35% of the estimated annual calculated amount\u003c/strong\u003e. Amounts that pass review are scheduled to be paid \u003cstrong\u003eby December 30, 2026\u003c/strong\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, the actual deposited amount may differ or payment may be withheld in the following cases.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe total assets fall within a reduction range\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThere is a statutory reason for deduction, such as allocation toward delinquent taxes\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe scheduled first-half payment falls under a payment-withholding threshold\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCollected income and asset information indicates a high likelihood of future recovery\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe application details differ from information verified by the National Tax Service\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe semiannual application system does not finalize the credit based solely on first-half wages. It is an advance-payment and settlement structure in which a portion is paid first and then recalculated after annual income is confirmed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#automatic-second-half-application-and-2027-settlement\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"automatic-second-half-application-and-2027-settlement\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eAutomatic Second-Half Application and 2027 Settlement\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApplying for the first half of 2026 is treated as also applying for the second half of 2026, so the same household generally does not need to apply again for the second half.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe National Tax Service will verify the annual income and asset requirements for 2026 and settle the annual credit in \u003cstrong\u003eJune 2027\u003c/strong\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the amount received in advance is less than the final calculated amount, the difference will be paid additionally.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the amount received in advance is greater than the final calculated amount, the excess may be recovered.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the final requirements are not met, the entire amount already paid may be subject to recovery.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the applicant or spouse is found to have income other than earned income, such as business income, the household will be excluded from semiannual payment eligibility, and the application may be treated as a regular application and processed according to the regular review schedule. In this case, the settlement timing may differ from that of households making standard semiannual applications based solely on earned income.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#treatment-when-business-income-is-also-earned\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"treatment-when-business-income-is-also-earned\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eTreatment When Business Income Is Also Earned\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe semiannual application system is designed to allow households with only earned income to receive part of the credit in advance in line with when wages are earned. If the applicant or spouse also has business income or similar income, accurately calculating the credit before annual income is finalized is difficult, so the application is processed under the regular application method.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, even if the applicant receives only wages from a company, the household may not be treated as having only earned income if the spouse has business income. Applicants should also check whether money received from delivery, sales, or freelance activities was submitted as business income under tax law.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving income other than earned income does not immediately eliminate eligibility for the credit. It means that, instead of receiving semiannual payments, the household will undergo a regular review after annual income is finalized. Final eligibility is determined based on all requirements, including gross income and assets.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#preliminary-checks-to-reduce-recovery-risk\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"preliminary-checks-to-reduce-recovery-risk\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003ePreliminary Checks to Reduce Recovery Risk\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the 2026 review, the collection of local tax assessment information will be moved forward, allowing the National Tax Service to withhold first-half payments in advance for some applicants who are expected to face recovery at settlement. Payment withholding does not immediately mean final disqualification. The final settlement will be based on subsequently confirmed annual income and assets.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo reduce the possibility of recovery, it is important to check the following before applying.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe spouse’s types of income, including wages, business income, and religious worker income\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChanges in annual wages due to leaving a job midyear, changing jobs, or working for multiple employers\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHousehold members’ real estate, vehicles, savings, and jeonse deposits\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDifferences between household members entered in the application and National Tax Service information\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether the estimated calculated amount has been mistaken for an already finalized payment amount\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the National Tax Service requests corrections or supporting information, documents explaining the facts must be submitted within the specified period. Required documents, such as lease agreements, wage statements, and family relationship records, vary depending on the reason for the request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#records-to-keep-after-applying\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"records-to-keep-after-applying\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eRecords to Keep After Applying\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApplicants should not stop after checking the application completion screen. It is advisable to retain the following records.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReceipt number and application date\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHousehold type displayed at the time of application\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncome and asset details entered or reviewed\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePayment account information\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNational Tax Service correction requests and submitted documents\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePayment determination and 2027 settlement notice\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese records can help identify what information changed if the payment amount differs from the estimate or a recovery notice is received. In particular, it is safer to retain objective documentation of the asset reference date and the spouse’s type of income rather than relying solely on memory from the time of application.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#differences-between-regular-and-semiannual-applications\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"differences-between-regular-and-semiannual-applications\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDifferences Between Regular and Semiannual Applications\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCategory\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSemiannual application\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRegular application\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003ePrimary eligible households\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Semiannual application\"\u003eHouseholds in which both the applicant and spouse have only earned income\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Regular application\"\u003eEligible households with earned income, business income, religious worker income, or similar income\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eFirst-half 2026 application\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Semiannual application\"\u003eSeptember 1–15, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Regular application\"\u003eNot applicable\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003ePayment structure\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Semiannual application\"\u003ePartial advance payment of the estimated annual calculated amount, followed by settlement\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Regular application\"\u003ePayment after review based on annual income\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eProcedure after first-half application\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Semiannual application\"\u003eAutomatic second-half application and settlement the following year\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Regular application\"\u003eApplication during the regular application period the following year\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003ePossibility of excess payment\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Semiannual application\"\u003eRecovery may occur depending on the settlement result\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Regular application\"\u003eRelatively low because finalized annual information is used\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHouseholds with only earned income may review whether the semiannual or regular application method is available to them, but they cannot receive duplicate credit payments for the same income year.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Everyday Finance","Hometax","Taxes","Earned Income Tax Credit"],"faqs":[{"question":"When is the semiannual application period for the Earned Income Tax Credit for the first half of 2026?","answer":"It is from September 1 to September 15, 2026. Once the period has passed, you cannot submit a new semiannual application for the first half of the year, so you must check the regular application procedure available afterward."},{"question":"Can I apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit even if I did not receive an application notice?","answer":"Yes. The notice is provided for convenience based on data held by the National Tax Service and is not confirmation of eligibility. Even if you did not receive a notice, you can apply directly through Hometax if you believe you meet the requirements."},{"question":"Can I submit a semiannual application if my spouse has business income?","answer":"Semiannual applications are for households in which both the applicant and the applicant’s spouse have only earned income during the relevant year. If the spouse is found to have business income or other income, the application may be treated as a regular application instead of a semiannual payment and reviewed after annual income is finalized."},{"question":"Do I automatically receive 35% of the maximum annual credit for the first half of the year?","answer":"No. The starting point is 35% of the estimated annual amount calculated using the household type, total wages, and other factors. The actual payment may vary due to reductions based on assets, application to tax arrears, payment deferrals, review adjustments, and other factors."},{"question":"When is the payment date for the first half of 2026?","answer":"Payments for the first half of the year that pass the review are scheduled to be made by December 30, 2026. The deposit date and payment status may vary by individual depending on the progress of the review, so you must check through Hometax."},{"question":"If I apply for the first half of the year, do I need to apply again for the second half?","answer":"In principle, you do not need to apply again. Those who submit a semiannual application for the first half are treated as having also applied for the second half, and the final amount is settled in June 2027 based on annual income."},{"question":"Does everyone receive the same amount if their assets are less than KRW 240 million?","answer":"No. You must check the guidance for the relevant year on Hometax for the reduction criteria and payment rates based on total assets. If your assets are at least KRW 240 million, you do not meet the asset requirement."},{"question":"Are loans deducted when calculating assets for the Earned Income Tax Credit?","answer":"Generally, liabilities are not deducted from total assets. Even if a home is secured by a mortgage, you should not arbitrarily subtract the outstanding loan balance from the value of the home and must apply the National Tax Service’s asset valuation standards."},{"question":"Why might a semiannual payment be recovered later?","answer":"A semiannual payment is calculated before annual income is finalized. If actual annual income, household composition, assets, or income other than earned income is confirmed during the 2027 settlement and the final calculated amount is less than the amount already received, the difference may be recovered."},{"question":"Does a payment deferral mean that I have been disqualified from receiving the Earned Income Tax Credit?","answer":"Not necessarily. Advance payment may be deferred if data such as local tax assessment records indicate a possibility that the payment may need to be recovered. Final eligibility and the amount are determined through additional review and the annual settlement results."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.nts.go.kr/nts/na/ntt/selectNttInfo.do?nttSn=1352882","title":"National Tax Service Guide to Semiannual Applications for the Earned Income Tax Credit","type":"source"},{"url":"https://g.nts.go.kr/nts/cm/cntnts/cntntsView.do?cntntsId=7784\u0026mi=2453","title":"National Tax Service Guide to the Semiannual Application System for the Earned Income and Child Tax Credits","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.hometax.go.kr","title":"National Tax Service Hometax","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":737,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6OTM4MCwicHVyIjoiYmxvYl9pZCJ9fQ==--8b53c1c41b41d453f7fdcc5e620c24e1ce7ad1e2/ai-b93d2d23.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"노트북과 서류를 살펴보며 계산기를 사용하는 두 사람","caption":"두 사람이 근로장려금 신청을 준비하며 서류와 온라인 정보를 확인하고 있다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Two people reviewing documents on a laptop with a calculator and coins nearby","caption":"Two people review documents and online information while preparing an earned income tax credit application.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"ノートパソコンで書類を確認する二人と、机上の電卓や硬貨","caption":"二人が勤労奨励金の申請に向けて書類とオンライン情報を確認している。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Dos personas revisan documentos en un portátil junto a una calculadora y monedas","caption":"Dos personas consultan documentos e información en línea para preparar una solicitud de ayuda laboral.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Dua orang memeriksa dokumen di laptop dengan kalkulator dan koin di meja","caption":"Dua orang meninjau dokumen dan informasi daring untuk menyiapkan permohonan kredit pajak penghasilan kerja.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Duas pessoas conferem documentos no notebook com calculadora e moedas sobre a mesa","caption":"Duas pessoas analisam documentos e informações on-line para preparar um pedido de benefício trabalhista.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"兩人透過筆電查看文件，桌上放著計算機與硬幣","caption":"兩人正在核對文件與線上資訊，準備申請勤勞獎勵金。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Zwei Personen prüfen Unterlagen am Laptop, daneben liegen Taschenrechner und Münzen","caption":"Zwei Personen prüfen Unterlagen und Online-Informationen für einen Antrag auf Erwerbstätigenförderung.","description":null}}},{"id":738,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6OTM4NiwicHVyIjoiYmxvYl9pZCJ9fQ==--b22bf6136fe3df57253cb355357de9b12644f681/ai-492f4ec8.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_image","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"노트북 신청 화면, 달력, 가족, 자산, 동전, 저울로 표현한 근로장려금 절차 삽화","caption":"근로장려금 반기신청부터 자격 심사, 지급 및 환수까지의 흐름을 보여준다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Earned income tax credit process with an online form, calendar, family, assets, coins, and scales","caption":"The illustration shows the path from half-year application and eligibility review to payment or recovery.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"オンライン申請画面、カレンダー、家族、資産、硬貨、天秤で表した勤労奨励金の手続き","caption":"勤労奨励金の半期申請から資格審査、支給、返還までの流れを示している。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Proceso del crédito fiscal con formulario digital, calendario, familia, bienes, monedas y balanzas","caption":"La ilustración muestra desde la solicitud semestral y la revisión de requisitos hasta el pago o reintegro.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Proses kredit pajak dengan formulir daring, kalender, keluarga, aset, koin, dan timbangan","caption":"Ilustrasi ini menunjukkan alur dari pengajuan semester dan pemeriksaan kelayakan hingga pembayaran atau penarikan kembali.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Processo do crédito fiscal com formulário digital, calendário, família, bens, moedas e balanças","caption":"A ilustração mostra o fluxo do pedido semestral e da análise de elegibilidade até o pagamento ou a devolução.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"以線上申請、日曆、家庭、資產、硬幣與天平呈現勞動獎勵金流程","caption":"插圖呈現勞動獎勵金從半年申請、資格審查到發放或追回的流程。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ablauf der Steuergutschrift mit Onlineformular, Kalender, Familie, Vermögen, Münzen und Waagen","caption":"Die Illustration zeigt den Ablauf vom Halbjahresantrag über die Prüfung bis zur Auszahlung oder Rückforderung.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-08-18T15:03:10+09:00","updated_at":"2026-08-18T15:03:10+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/2026-earned-income-tax-credit-semiannual-application"}