Child Tax Credit
The Child Tax Credit: What You Need to Know
In 2021, the expanded Child Tax Credit was worth $3,000 per child ages 6-17 and $3,600 per child under 6. While that version of the Child Tax Credit expired after one year, Congress is considering a bill that would increase the tax credit amount and expand eligibility over the 2023, 2024, and 2025 tax years.
In the meantime, you can still benefit from existing tax programs designed to help families. Single parents making up to $200,000 annually and married couples making up to $400,000 annually can receive as much as $1,600 per child from the Child Tax Credit, depending on income level.
If you have children under 18 who live with you more than half of the year, you are likely eligible even if you do not usually file taxes or have low/no earnings.
To Get the Child Tax Credit
- File your taxes, even if you don’t file them normally. This will tell the IRS where to send your payment and how many children you take care of. Also, if you don’t file, you might miss out on other tax credits.
- To self-file or make an appointment for free tax preparation help, visit United Way's free tax filing website, MyFreeTaxes.com. Southeast Michigan residents can visit GetTheTaxFacts.org for assistance.
- What difference did the 2021 expanded Child Tax Credit make? See research from Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan.
Let's spread the word
Share these resources with other people in your community.
Child Tax Credit FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions and concerns
Will getting the Child Tax Credit reduce my benefits?
No, the Child Tax Credit does not count as income for federally-funded benefits, including SNAP.
What will I need to file taxes so I can get the Child Tax Credit?
You will need an email address, ID, and your child’s Social Security Number. If you received child tax credit payments last year, you will also need the amount you received. You can find that information on Letter 6419 that the IRS sent to you, or by creating an account with the IRS and logging in.
Will I owe taxes on the money I receive?
No, you will not owe taxes on this money. The Child Tax Credit payments are not income.
Can parents who share custody of a child both get the Child Tax Credit?
No, only one parent can claim the credit for a child. The child must also live with you for at least 6 months out of the year.
How can parents without a social security number get an ITIN so they can claim the Child Tax Credit?
Parents who do not have a social security number will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to claim the child tax credit, even if you do not file taxes. We encourage people to file taxes to be considered for other valuable tax credits, including the Child and Dependent Care Credit for child care that allows you to work or the American Opportunity Tax Credit for tuition or fees for postsecondary education.
To get an ITIN, you must fill out a W-7 form. Certified Acceptance Agents in Michigan can help you with this process; some charge for the service, and some do it for free.
Are DACA recipients eligible for the expanded Child Tax Credit?
Yes, qualifying residents, including DACA recipients, are eligible for the Child Tax Credit so long as the children being claimed in the household have a valid social security number. DACA recipients who are dependents of ITIN filers can also be claimed for the Child Tax Credit because they have valid social security numbers. See more information for DACA recipients filing taxes here.