Everything About the $3,600 Child Tax Credit Payments in 2025

The 2025 Child Tax Credit remains at $2,000 per child, with up to $1,700 refundable for eligible families. While there have been proposals to increase the credit to $3,600 per child, no new laws have been passed yet to make this change. Keep reading for a comprehensive guide on the eligibility criteria, income limits, and how to claim the credit.

2025 Child Tax Credit Overview

The Child Tax Credit (CTC) is an essential financial support for families, helping offset the costs of raising children. In 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act temporarily boosted the CTC to $3,600 per child under 6 and $3,000 per child aged 6 to 17. However, as of 2025, the credit is still set at $2,000 per child, with ongoing discussions about possible increases. But no law has yet been passed to extend the $3,600 amount for 2025.

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Key Details About the 2025 Child Tax Credit

Current Child Tax Credit Structure for 2025

For the 2025 tax year, the Child Tax Credit is set at $2,000 per child under 17. The credit phases out for those with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $200,000 for single filers and $400,000 for married couples filing jointly. The refundable portion of the credit is capped at $1,700 per child.

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Eligibility Requirements for the 2025 Child Tax Credit

To qualify for the 2025 Child Tax Credit, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Age Test: The child must be under 17 at the end of the tax year.
2. Relationship Test: The child must be your son, daughter, stepchild, foster child, sibling, stepsibling, or a descendant of any of these (e.g., grandchild, niece, or nephew).
3. Support Test: The child must not have provided more than half of their own support during the year.
4. Dependent Test: You must be able to claim the child as a dependent on your tax return.
5. Citizenship Test: The child must be a U.S. citizen, national, or resident alien.
6. Residency Test: The child must have lived with you for more than half the year.
7. Family Income Test: The credit begins to phase out for MAGI above $200,000 for single filers and $400,000 for married couples.

For a full explanation of these requirements, visit the IRS Child Tax Credit page.

Proposals to Increase the Child Tax Credit

There have been ongoing discussions and proposals to increase the Child Tax Credit to $3,600 per child. The American Rescue Plan Act temporarily expanded the credit in 2021, offering $3,600 for children under 6 and $3,000 for children aged 6 to 17. This increase significantly reduced child poverty but expired at the end of 2021.

Currently, no new legislation has been passed to extend or reintroduce the increased credit for the 2025 tax year. Some political figures, including Vice President Kamala Harris, have proposed restoring the expanded credit, offering up to $3,600 per child and even a $6,000 credit for families with infants under one year old. Additionally, some Republican lawmakers have suggested increasing the credit to $5,000 per child. However, none of these proposals have been enacted into law yet.

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How to Claim the Child Tax Credit in 2025

If you are eligible for the Child Tax Credit for the 2025 tax year, you can claim it when filing your 2025 tax return in 2026. Here’s how:

1. Determine Eligibility: Make sure your child meets all the criteria for the Child Tax Credit.
2. Complete the Required Forms: When filing your federal income tax return, complete Form 1040 and attach Schedule 8812 (Credits for Qualifying Children and Other Dependents).
3. Calculate the Credit: Use the worksheet provided in the Schedule 8812 instructions to calculate your credit amount.
4. File Your Tax Return: Submit your return either electronically or by mail, making sure all information is accurate to avoid delays.

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