2026 Child Tax Credit: What Will You Receive?

If you have children or dependents under age 17, you may qualify for the Child Tax Credit (CTC), a tax benefit designed to help families offset the cost of raising children. For the 2026 tax year, the credit increases to up to $2,200 per child, up from $2,000 in 2025.

How the Child Tax Credit Works

Tax credits reduce your tax bill dollar-for-dollar. For example, if you owe $3,000 and qualify for a $1,000 credit, your total drops to $2,000.

For 2026:

• Maximum credit: $2,200 per qualifying child

• Refundable portion: up to $1,700

• Income limits remain:

  • $200,000 for single filers

  • $400,000 for married couples filing jointly

The credit begins to phase out above these thresholds.

Key Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, the child must:

• Be under age 17 at the end of the tax year

• Be your dependent (child, stepchild, sibling, or close relative)

• Live with you for more than half the year

• Not provide more than half of their own financial support

• Be a U.S. citizen, national, or resident with a valid Social Security number

Additionally, at least one parent must have a valid Social Security number, and families must earn at least $2,500 to receive the refundable portion.

How to Claim the Credit

You can claim the CTC when filing your federal tax return using Form 1040. The IRS also provides worksheets to help calculate your exact credit.

If you believe you received the wrong amount—or no payment—you can verify your status through the IRS Child Tax Credit portal or file a payment trace if needed.

Other Credits for Families

Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC):This credit helps cover childcare or dependent care costs while you work or look for work.

• Covers children under 13 or dependent adults

• Credit ranges from 20% to 35% of care expenses (increasing to up to 50% starting in 2026)

• Maximum expenses:

  • $3,000 for one dependent

  • $6,000 for two or more

Unlike the CTC, this credit is non-refundable.

Bottom Line

The Child Tax Credit remains one of the most important ways families can reduce their tax burden. With a higher maximum credit and inflation adjustments starting in 2026, eligible families may be able to keep more of their income.

Because tax rules can change, it’s important to stay informed each year or consult a financial professional to ensure you’re receiving the full benefit available to you.