Final answer:
The basic personal amount is indeed a non-refundable tax credit that can reduce one's tax owed to zero for certain low-income earners, although the specified amount may vary. The EITC is also aimed at supporting low-income earners, with its phase-out rules ensuring support up to a specific income level.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the basic personal amount is a non-refundable tax credit that can reduce tax payable to zero for people with income under $11,000 is true. Non-refundable tax credits can be applied against taxes owed to reduce the liability. However, the specific basic personal amount threshold can vary; adjustments may be necessary due to inflation or changes in tax law.
For example, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which is different from the basic personal amount, is a refundable tax credit aimed at assisting low-income working taxpayers, particularly those with children. In 2013, a single parent with two children could receive a tax credit of up to $5,372 with the credit increasing with the amount of income earned up to $17,530. Beyond a certain income threshold, this credit begins to phase out.
In summary, tax codes often provide measures to support low-income earners, such as the basic personal amount or the EITC, which have their respective thresholds and rules for how they benefit taxpayers.