In March, Congress expanded the Child Tax Credit as part of President Biden’s American Rescue Package. Millions of families received their first payment yesterday.
It’s estimated that the expanded child tax credit, together with other measures in the American Rescue Plan, could help lift 5 million children out of poverty — cutting childhood poverty in half, and making it the largest anti-poverty program in a generation.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the expanded child tax credit:
Q: Who is eligible for the expanded child tax credit?
A: Single parents with incomes up to $75,000, couples who file jointly and earn up to $150,000, and heads of households earning up to $112,500 will be eligible for the full expanded credit. Families who earn more than $150,000 will likely qualify for a reduced credit. For every child under the age of six, families will get up to $3,600 this year, or $300 per month. For every child ages 6-17, the amount is $3,000, or $250 per month.
If you’re a parent of a child under 18 and received a stimulus check via direct deposit, your first monthly CTC check should have hit your bank account yesterday.
If you got your stimulus check via mail, your CTC check was sent out yesterday and should hit your mailbox soon.
If you did not get your stimulus check or didn’t file taxes because you make under the reporting threshold, you can register with the IRS here to receive your payments.
Q: What if I’m undocumented?
A: Undocumented folks with children who have social security numbers qualify for the tax credit. Their child must have a social security number issued before May 17, 2021. However, to sign up to receive the funds, undocumented parents or guardians must have Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN).
Q: What if I had a baby this year?
A: The IRS will be updating their site in a few weeks with a portal where you can update your family information and enroll in the CTC program for your baby.
This program is an example of what’s possible when government is oriented towards making working people's lives better, instead of just enriching the wealthy.
Alexandria is fighting for measures and policies like the expanded child tax credit and funeral assistance because she believes government's job is to help families make ends meet.
In solidarity,
Team AOC
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