Great news for families! The Child Tax Credit (CTC) has been increased again — up to $3,600 per child — and it’s set to bring some much-needed relief in 2025. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or guardian, here’s everything you need to know in simple terms:
What’s the $3,600 CTC All About?
The Child Tax Credit helps families cover the cost of raising kids. It was originally $2,000 per child, but during the pandemic, it was boosted to $3,600 for children under 6 and $3,000 for ages 6–17. In 2025, that higher amount is coming back to help ease the pressure of rising prices.
Quick Highlights:
You can get the money even if you don’t owe taxes.
It may come as monthly payments or a lump sum at tax time.
Who Can Get the $3,600 CTC?
To qualify for the full credit:
Your child must be under 17 by the end of 2025.
They must be your biological, adopted, step, foster child, or a grandchild/sibling.
They should have lived with you for at least 6 months.
You must have provided over half of their support.
Your child must have a valid Social Security Number (SSN).
Income Limits:
Single filers: Up to $200,000
Married filing jointly: Up to $400,000
(The credit reduces by $50 for every $1,000 above these limits.)
Even if you’re unemployed or have little income, you could still get the credit!
How Much Will You Receive?
Child’s Age
Credit Amount
Under 6
$3,600
Ages 6-17
$3,000
When Will Payments Start?
The IRS hasn’t released official 2025 dates yet, but based on past years:
Monthly payments might begin July 2025 and go through December 2025 (like $300/month for younger kids).
Or you can choose to get the full amount at tax time in early 2026.
Check the IRS Child Tax Credit Portal for updates.
How Do You Claim the Credit?
It’s simple — just file your taxes:
Use Form 1040 (regular tax return).
Include Schedule 8812 for the Child Tax Credit.
Don’t normally file taxes? The IRS Non-Filer Tool (when available) will help you claim it.
Already Filed But Didn’t Get It?
Here’s what you can do:
File an amended return (Form 1040-X).
Double-check your child’s SSN was entered correctly.
Make sure your income wasn’t too high to qualify.
What About Foster Parents or Guardians?
Yes — you can qualify too, if:
The child lived with you for more than 6 months.
You provided half or more of their support.
They have a valid SSN.
Adoptive parents: Your child must have an SSN — an ATIN isn’t accepted for the CTC.
FAQs – Quick Answers
Q: Do I have to pay it back?
A: Not unless you got more than you should’ve (e.g., wrong income or dependents).
Q: My baby is born in 2025 — do I qualify?
A: Yes! You’ll get the full $3,600 when filing your 2025 taxes, even for a December birth.
Q: I live in Puerto Rico. Am I eligible?
A: Yes, families in Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories now qualify.
Q: Will this affect my SNAP or Medicaid benefits?
A: Nope! The credit won’t count as income for programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or housing aid.
Q: How do I update my bank info?
A: Use the IRS Update Portal (if monthly payments are brought back).
Final Thoughts
This boosted $3,600 Child Tax Credit can be a huge help with everyday costs — from groceries to school supplies. If you’re eligible, don’t miss out. File your tax return or use the IRS Non-Filer Tool when it opens.