Child Tax Credit 2026: How Much Can You Get in Your Tax Refund?

As tax season approaches, many U.S. families are asking how much the Child Tax Credit (CTC) will add to their 2026 tax refund.

Recent IRS updates and permanent changes under the One Big, Beautiful Bill have increased the value of this benefit for eligible parents and guardians.
 

What Is the Child Tax Credit?

The Child Tax Credit is a dollar-for-dollar tax credit that directly reduces the taxes you owe. If the credit is larger than your tax bill, part of it can be refunded to you.
 

Maximum Child Tax Credit Amount in 2026

For the 2026 tax year, the CTC is worth:

• $2,200 per qualifying child under age 17

• Up to $1,700 is refundable, even if you owe no federal income tax

A family with two eligible children could receive up to $4,400 in total credits.

Read: Florida Approves Education Freedom Tax Credit Starting in 2027
 

Income Limits for the 2026 Child Tax Credit

The credit begins to phase out if your income exceeds:

• $200,000 for single filers or heads of household

• $400,000 for married couples filing jointly

Families earning below these limits may qualify for the full credit.

 

Child Tax Credit Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, a child must:

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

• Have a valid Social Security number

• Be a U.S. citizen, national, or legal resident

• Live with you for more than half the year

At least one parent must have a valid Social Security number to claim the credit.
 

Important Changes to Know for 2026

Updates made permanent include:

• The $2,200 credit amount

• The $1,700 refundable portion, adjusted for inflation

• A $2,500 minimum earned income requirement to receive the refundable amount

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