How the expanded 2021 child tax credit can help your family

The American Rescue Plan Act expands the child tax credit for tax year 2021. The maximum credit amount has increased to $3,000 per qualifying child between ages 6 and 17 and $3,600 per qualifying child under age 6.

If you're eligible, you could receive part of the credit in 2021 through advance payments of up to:

• $250 per month for each qualifying child age 6 to 17 at the end of 2021.
• $300 per month for each qualifying child under age 6 at the end of 2021.

The expansion of the credit also means it:

• is fully refundable, meaning you can claim the credit even if you don't have earned income or don't owe any income taxes.
• now includes children who turn 17 in 2021.
• allows you to receive half of the 2021 estimated credit, in advance.

See Advance Child Tax Credit Payments in 2021 on IRS.gov for details on eligibility, timing of monthly payments, helpful resources and more.