As tax season continues in the United States, there’s some good news for families. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has confirmed that the Child Tax Credit (CTC) remains active in 2025. This benefit helps millions of families by giving them a refund of up to $2,000 per child under the age of 16.
At a time when inflation and rising prices are affecting many households, this credit can bring much-needed financial relief. For many parents, it’s not just a way to reduce taxes—it’s also a chance to receive real money back.
What Is the Child Tax Credit?
The Child Tax Credit is a benefit offered by the IRS to support families raising children. It gives a tax credit for every child under 16, which means you pay less in taxes—or even get money back.
In 2025, the IRS offers up to $2,000 per child. Out of this, $1,600 is refundable, which means even if you don’t owe any taxes, you can still receive that amount as a cash refund. The remaining $400 is only used to reduce any tax you may owe.
So, even if your income is low and you don’t have to pay taxes, you could still get up to $1,600 per child from the government.
Who Is Eligible for the $2,000 Child Tax Credit?
To get this benefit, families need to meet a few conditions set by the IRS. Here’s what you need:
- You must have at least one child under the age of 16 at the end of the tax year.
- You must file a tax return for the year.
- Your income must be within the IRS limits, which change depending on whether you are single, married, or filing jointly.
- Both the child and the parent claiming the credit must have valid Social Security numbers.
If you meet all these conditions, you can receive the full amount—even if you don’t owe taxes. Just remember to file your tax return before the deadline in 2025.
Why the Child Tax Credit Matters
The Child Tax Credit is not just about saving money—it plays a big role in helping families, especially those with low incomes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the credit was temporarily increased, and this helped reduce child poverty in the US by a large amount.
Even though the temporary higher amounts are no longer available, the current version still gives families real support. Getting up to $2,000 per child can help parents pay for food, clothes, school supplies, and other needs.
That’s why the IRS encourages all eligible families to check their status and file their taxes on time. It’s a simple way to make sure you don’t miss out on money you deserve.